Google fires hundreds of workers to save costs, and it has recently made substantial changes in its organizational structure, impacting key personnel and divisions. Notably, the company has parted ways with Fitbit co-founders, James Park and Eric Friedman, signaling a potential shift in the direction of Fitbit, which Google acquired in 2018 for approximately $2.1 billion.
The changes extend beyond Fitbit, as Google is also implementing layoffs within its Devices and Services teams, responsible for creating products such as Nest, Fitbit, and Pixel. While the Pixel team appears to be relatively unaffected, the Augmented Reality (AR) division has experienced significant downsizing, with hundreds of job cuts. This move raises questions about Google’s commitment to developing its own AR hardware.
Traditionally, these divisions operated independently, focusing on diverse aspects like hardware engineering, design, user interface, and software. The restructuring seems to be steering towards a more functional organizational model, consolidating these teams into a single unit. This unified approach aims to streamline hardware development, bringing together expertise from Pixel, Nest, and Fitbit.
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Interestingly, there is speculation about appointing a single person to oversee all hardware-related endeavors at Google. While this shift may enhance coordination and efficiency, it remains to be seen how it will impact the diverse product lineup offered by the tech giant.
This transformation prompts reflection on the future trajectory of Fitbit under Google’s ownership. The uncertainty surrounding the fate of Fitbit raises questions about its continued existence in its current form and the potential influence of these changes on the wearables market.
In essence, Google’s recent restructuring goes beyond a mere reshuffling of personnel; it signifies a strategic realignment towards a more cohesive approach in its hardware development efforts. The impact of these changes on innovation, product diversity, and market positioning will likely become more apparent in the coming months.
