Amazon is reportedly laying off "several hundred employees" from its Alexa division, including positions in India, as the company shifts its focus toward generative artificial intelligence (AI). In a memo to employees, Daniel Rausch, Vice President of Alexa and Fire TV team, mentioned that the layoffs are part of the company's effort to align with business priorities and maximize resources on generative AI.
The memo stated, "These shifts are leading us to discontinue some initiatives, which is resulting in several hundred roles being eliminated." Amazon did not provide specific details about the initiatives being discontinued. The company plans to communicate with affected colleagues in India the following week and follow local processes in other regions.
Amazon had conducted layoffs in its Devices & Services division last year as part of broader company-wide cuts. The focus on generative AI is seen as an investment in creating a more intuitive, intelligent, and useful Alexa experience. The affected employees will be provided with packages that include a separation payment, transitional health insurance benefits, external job placement support, and paid time for job searches.
This move comes as part of Amazon's strategic realignment and follows the departure of Dave Limp, who was in charge of the Devices & Services division, in August. Panos Panay, a former Microsoft executive, has taken over Limp's role at Amazon.
(With Agency Inputs)
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