Google recently downsized its news division, cutting approximately 40 to 45 jobs, according to sources. The exact number of job cuts remains unconfirmed, but these layoffs are part of Google’s larger effort to reorganize its workforce. Google representatives have stressed their commitment to nurturing a dynamic information ecosystem and view news as a fundamental component of their enduring investments.

Google News is a platform that curates links to articles from numerous publishers and magazines, offering a convenient way for users to discover top-ranked news on various topics. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that users have access to credible and up-to-date information, particularly during periods of worldwide significance, like the Israel-Hamas conflict and Russia’s incursion into Ukraine.

Amid these global events, the spread of false content and misinformation has become a major concern. The policymakers and public are increasingly looking to tech giants like Google to take measures to combat the dissemination of false and misleading information. Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado, for instance, has sought information on how Google, along with other platforms like Meta, Twitter and TikTok, is working to prevent the spread of such content related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Furthermore, European Union industry chief Thierry Breton has called on companies, including Google, to take stricter actions against disinformation and adhere to content moderation requirements under the EU’s Digital Services Act.

Many tech companies have been bolstering their content moderation teams to address the growing challenges of misinformation and disinformation.Furthermore, nations such as Canada are examining legal actions that would necessitate tech platforms to remunerate publishers for their content.

These layoffs in the Google News division follow a series of staff reductions across the company this year, indicating a broader restructuring effort. The technology behemoth had previously revealed its decision to reduce its workforce by 12,000 positions in January, impacting around 6% of its full-time employees. In the preceding month, Google also made personnel reductions by shedding hundreds of roles from its recruitment department.

The job cuts have understandably prompted sentiments of loss and appreciation for the talented professionals who have been affected.The tech giant had previously announced its plan to cut 12,000 positions in January, affecting approximately 6% of its full-time workforce. Additionally, in the prior month, Google downsized its recruitment department by eliminating hundreds of roles.