Google has laid off hundreds of employees from its Platforms and Devices division as part of a strategy to become more nimble and effective. The layoffs follow a voluntary exit plan offered earlier this year, aimed at addressing employee dissatisfaction and operational efficiency. This restructuring comes amid a broader trend of layoffs in the tech industry, although AI sectors continue to experience a labor shortage.

Google has offered buyouts to employees in various divisions, including its knowledge and information unit, as part of a strategy to reduce headcount following previous layoffs. The voluntary exit program encourages those not aligned with the company's goals or struggling in their roles to consider leaving, while also mandating a return to office for some remote workers. This shift towards buyouts comes amid ongoing cost-cutting measures as Google invests in AI infrastructure.

Google is requiring some remote employees to return to the office for a hybrid work schedule or face job cuts, reversing previous remote work approvals. This shift comes as the company seeks to cut costs while investing heavily in artificial intelligence, amid broader trends in the tech industry tightening remote work policies. Employees within proximity to offices must comply or opt for voluntary exit packages.

Google has reduced its management team by over one-third as part of an effort to streamline operations and increase efficiency. Executives reported that many former managers are now working as individual contributors, and the company has also introduced voluntary exit programs for employees seeking career breaks. Despite recent layoffs and cuts, Google aims to maintain a competitive benefits structure without adopting policies similar to those of Meta.