#Google, #GoogleNews, #Layoff, #FakeNews, #IsraelHamasWar, #Alphabet
IBNS: Tech giant Google has recently downsized its news division, with nearly 40 to 45 employees in Google News reportedly losing their positions, according to a spokesperson from the Alphabet Workers Union, reported CNBC.
Although the exact figures remain undisclosed, the spokesperson noted that there are still hundreds of individuals engaged in the news product.
“We’re deeply committed to a vibrant information ecosystem, and news is a part of that long-term investment,” the Alphabet Workers Union spokesperson said, as per CNBC.
“We’ve made some internal changes to streamline our organization. A small number of employees were impacted. We’re supporting everyone with a transition period, outplacement services, and severance as they look for new opportunities at Google and beyond,” they added.
A Google employee wrote in a post on LinkedIn about the recent layoffs. Rob R, a Staff Software Engineer at the tech giant, described those fired as “some of the best and brightest people”.
Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, there has been increased pressure on online platforms to ensure accurate information.
Various individuals have urged platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) to take stringent measures against the spread of false content regarding the Middle East conflict.
Google has stated that the recent layoffs will not compromise the quality of work in its News division.
