In a strategic move aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and innovation, Google CEO Sundar Pichai has announced a significant reorganization involving the Gemini, Assistant, and Search teams. This restructuring reflects a commitment to fostering collaboration and accelerating the deployment of advanced AI models.
Restructuring for Enhanced Collaboration
The Gemini app team, which was previously integrated within Google’s Knowledge & Information division—encompassing Search, Ads, Geo (Maps), and Commerce—will now transition into the Google DeepMind organization, established last year. Pichai emphasized that this realignment will facilitate improved feedback loops and expedite the rollout of new models within the Gemini app, ultimately enhancing post-training processes and leveraging existing product momentum.
In a related shift, the Assistant teams that focus on devices and home experiences will be reassigned to the Platforms & Devices division, which encompasses Pixel and Android. This strategic repositioning aims to bring these teams closer to the product surfaces they are developing, thereby consolidating AI-powered home initiatives under a unified team dedicated to enhancing user experience.
Leadership Changes and New Directions
In a notable leadership change, Prabhakar Raghavan, the chief of Google Search, will step down from his senior vice president role to embrace a new position as Chief Technologist at Google. In this capacity, he will collaborate closely with Pichai and other Google leaders to provide technical direction and foster a culture of technological excellence.
“Prabhakar’s leadership journey at Google has been remarkable, spanning Research, Workspace, Ads, and K&I,” Pichai remarked. He highlighted Raghavan’s pivotal role in launching AI-driven features across various platforms, including Smart Reply and Smart Compose in Gmail, which have significantly enhanced user engagement.
Under Raghavan’s guidance, the Knowledge & Information division will now be led by Nick Fox, a seasoned Googler who previously oversaw the Assistant’s development. As the new Senior Vice President, Fox is expected to leverage his extensive experience across various facets of K&I to drive innovation and strategic growth.
Pichai praised Fox’s instrumental role in shaping Google’s AI product roadmap and his collaborative efforts with Raghavan’s leadership team. Fox’s diverse background in Product and Design, as well as his pioneering contributions to Ads, positions him well to tackle the challenges ahead.
This reorganization marks a pivotal moment for Google as it seeks to refine its focus on AI-driven products and enhance the overall user experience across its platforms.
Updating…
