Fitbit co-founders leave Google amid new wave of tech layoffs

Google paid $2.1 billion for fitness tracking company Fitbit in 2021. Photo: DADO RUVIC/REUTERS

Game developer Unity also announced plans to cut 25% of its workforce. The move will affect 1,800 employees.

This comes a year after tens of thousands of workers were laid off during the market downturn.

Google told affected employees: We had to make some difficult decisions regarding the continued employment of certain Google employees, and we regret to inform you that your position is being eliminated.»

The spokesperson said: «We are investing responsibly in our company. our most important priorities and significant opportunities lie ahead.”

Shares of Google's parent company, Alphabet, have risen 55% in 12 months, in contrast to large layoffs last year that were preceded by a plunge in the company's shares. estimates.

The Alphabet workers union, which says it represents 1,400 employees, called the cuts “unnecessary.”

It said: “Our members and teammates work hard every day to to create great products for our users, and the company cannot continue to fire our colleagues while making billions every quarter. We won't stop fighting until our jobs are safe.»

Google is known to invest heavily in new products as it looks to expand beyond its core search business, but often cuts costs when new ideas cause difficulties.

Pixel phone sales have been rising in recent years, although Fitbits sales are believed to have fallen. Meanwhile, the company is investing heavily in artificial intelligence systems.