Amazon cuts 250 jobs in devices unit after product launches
Amazon has cut about 250 jobs in its devices and services unit, primarily in software development, after rolling out new Kindle e-readers and tablets. The company confirmed the layoffs, saying they will help it "operate more efficiently and better align with our product roadmap."
Amazon has cut about 250 jobs in its devices and services unit, the company confirmed on Wednesday, after weeks of product rollouts including new Kindle e-readers and tablet computers.
The job losses, primarily in software development, were confirmed by the company after a Reuters inquiry. A spokesperson said: "We've made the difficult decision to eliminate a small number of roles." The cuts affected no more than 250 positions, according to a person familiar with the matter.
The layoffs will help the company "operate more efficiently and better align with our product roadmap," the spokesperson added. Amazon also announced a new Alexa-powered alarm clock and photo frame on Wednesday.
As is the company's custom, text messages and emails were sent to workers early Wednesday morning. One seen by Reuters was from Cherie Robinson, a human resources vice president in devices and services, who said the company had undergone "a thorough review of our structure" resulting in the need for cuts.
Earlier this month, Amazon pared about 1,000 jobs in its core retail division. The company is due to report its third-quarter earnings after the market close on Thursday.