Google asking some Pixel, Android, Chrome team members to leave voluntarily

In a move signalling deeper changes within the company, Google has introduced a voluntary exit program for employees in its Platforms & Devices division, which includes the Pixel, Android, and Chrome divisions. This announcement, confirmed by TechCrunch and reported by 9to5Google, marks a significant step as the tech giant continues to adapt to shifting priorities and the competitive tech landscape. Rick Osterloh, Senior Vice President for Devices and Services, communicated the move to employees, offering those affected the chance to leave voluntarily with a severance package.

A Google spokesperson explained that the exit program applies to US-based workers in services such as Pixel, Android, Chrome/ChromeOS, Fitbit, Google One, Nest, and Photos. The decision follows the company’s earlier restructuring in 2024, which merged the Google Pixel team and Chrome teams into a unified Platforms & Devices division. "We want everyone to be deeply committed to our mission and focused on building great products, with speed and efficiency," the spokesperson said.

This restructuring and Google team changes 2025 come as part of the tech giant’s strategy to integrate artificial intelligence more deeply into its hardware and software offerings. With the rise of its generative AI platform, Gemini, the company aims to streamline product development while enhancing AI capabilities across devices.

Tech industry layoffs and Google’s strategic refocus

The Google job cuts come amid a broader trend of tech industry layoffs in 2025, with companies across the sector adjusting their workforce in response to economic challenges and evolving business needs. Google's restructuring is seen as an attempt to refocus efforts on its AI-driven product portfolio, particularly through Gemini, which has become central to recent product releases, including Samsung's Galaxy S25 and Google’s Pixel devices.

While Google’s layoffs primarily impact its hardware and device teams, core divisions like AI and Search remain unaffected. The company’s goal is to strengthen these key areas, which have seen growing competition from rivals in the tech sector. As Google continues to align its operations with the future of AI, the Google layoffs reflect an ongoing push for increased efficiency and innovation.