Google Fires 100s of AR Employees After Fitbit Co-Founders Departure

Google has made significant changes in its operations. They have laid off many employees, especially in the augmented reality (AR) division. This comes after the departure of Fitbit co-founders James Park and Eric Friedman.

This news follows previous Google layoffs in 2023, as they are trying to cut costs and compete better with companies like Microsoft and OpenAI in the AI field.

These changes come after the exit of Fitbit co-founders and a shift towards a functional organizational model. Google had announced layoffs earlier in 2023 as well.

Google acquired Fitbit for a massive Rs 14,700 crore in 2019, but now they are making changes. They are eliminating hundreds of jobs in their Devices & Services department, with the AR Hardware team being the most affected.

Despite the layoffs, Google is still committed to augmented reality. They plan to focus on AR features in their products and continue partnerships in this area. They also promise to keep innovating in health-related AI technologies and develop the Pixel Watch, Fitbit app, and Fitbit tracker line.

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information, like images or animations, onto the real world when viewed through a device, like a smartphone or AR glasses. It enhances our perception of reality by adding computer-generated elements.

Google’s AR division focuses on developing AR-related technology and features. They work on creating AR experiences for Google’s products, like adding virtual objects to real environments.

The company also explores how AR can be integrated into various applications, from gaming to navigation. Despite recent layoffs, Google remains committed to advancing AR technology and incorporating it into its products and partnerships.

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To reorganize, Google is creating a single team to oversee Pixel, Nest, and Fitbit hardware. This means one person will lead all Google hardware products.

Additionally, Google is reallocating its AR efforts to the Android and hardware teams, showing a change in their approach to AR development.