Google is making significant changes across its Search organization, implementing both workforce restructuring initiatives and enhanced privacy controls for users. The tech giant has launched a voluntary exit program for employees while simultaneously expanding tools that help users remove personal information from search results.
Voluntary Exit Program Targets Search Organization
Google has begun offering buyouts to US-based employees across its Search division and other key departments including marketing, research, and core engineering. The company refers to this initiative as a voluntary exit program with a minimum package of 14 weeks' pay and a July 1st enrollment deadline. Nick Fox, head of Google's Knowledge and Information group that oversees Search, described the program as providing a supportive exit path for those who don't feel aligned with our strategy, don't feel energized by your work, or are having difficulty meeting the expectations of your role.
Voluntary Exit Program Details:
- Minimum severance: 14 weeks' pay
- Enrollment deadline: July 1st
- Eligible: US-based employees in Search, marketing, research, and core engineering
- Excluded divisions: DeepMind, Google Cloud, YouTube, central ad sales
Strategic Focus on AI and Office Return
The buyout announcement coincides with Google's push to concentrate resources on artificial intelligence initiatives. Fox emphasized that the goal is ensuring every team member is all-in on building the future of our products during what he calls the AI moment. The company has been rapidly deploying AI features including AI Mode and new shopping experiences, while integrating Maps into cutting-edge surfaces like Gemini Live and XR glasses.
Remote Work Policy Changes
Alongside the voluntary departures, Google is implementing stricter office attendance requirements. US-based employees in the Knowledge and Information group who currently work fully remote but live within 50 miles of a Google office must transition to a hybrid schedule requiring three days per week in the office by September. Those who refuse face termination with severance packages.
Office Return Requirements:
- Policy applies to: US K&I employees within 50 miles of Google offices
- Schedule: 3 days per week in office (3/2 hybrid)
- Deadline: September 2025
- Consequence: Termination with severance for non-compliance
Enhanced Personal Data Removal Tools
While restructuring its workforce, Google has also expanded user privacy controls through its Results about you feature. Users can now directly request removal of personal information such as phone numbers, addresses, and email addresses that appear in search results. The process has been streamlined to allow removal requests directly from search results by clicking a three-dot menu next to unwanted listings, making it more accessible than the previous method requiring navigation through Google Account settings.
Personal Data Removal Process:
- Search for your personal information on Google
- Click three dots next to unwanted search result
- Submit removal request directly from search results
- Track requests through "Results about you" hub in Google Account settings
Selective Implementation Across Divisions
The buyout program notably excludes several major Google divisions including DeepMind, Google Cloud, YouTube, and the central advertising sales organization. However, Google's platforms and services group, which includes Android and Pixel devices, received similar buyout offers earlier this year before experiencing layoffs. The company maintains it plans to backfill many departed roles and continue hiring where needed, suggesting the initiative aims for strategic realignment rather than overall headcount reduction.