Google has announced a significant reorganization by merging its Android software division, which also handles the Chrome browser, with its hardware division known for Pixel smartphones and Fitbit wearables.
This move aims to enhance the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across its devices, marking a pivotal shift in how Google approaches mobile technology development.
The newly unified division will be under the leadership of Rick Osterloh, a seasoned executive in Google’s hardware group. This strategic realignment comes after years of keeping Android development separate from hardware initiatives.
This is to maintain fairness among Android’s broad user base, including major manufacturers like Samsung and Motorola, as well as Chinese firms such as Oppo and Xiaomi.
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Advanced hardware🤝Amazing software
State-of-the-art AIWith #Pixel, everything works closely together, from our devices to our custom-designed data centers built with #GoogleTensor Processing Units to run the latest AI models from Google DeepMind. #MadeByGoogle pic.twitter.com/zTomJowBvJ
— Made by Google (@madebygoogle) October 4, 2023
However, the landscape began to change as Google positioned its Pixel smartphone as a flagship device showcasing the capabilities of AI. With advancements in AI becoming increasingly central to mobile technology, particularly exemplified by features in the Pixel camera, the integration of software and hardware teams is a natural progression.
In a recent interview with The Verge, Osterloh highlighted that the convergence of these teams would accelerate the incorporation of AI functionalities in Google products. The development of the Pixel camera, which uses AI to enhance low-light photos and select optimal images from multiple shots, illustrates the potential of this integration.
Chirag Dekate, a Gartner analyst, commented on the shift, noting that Google is positioning itself to take a leading role in the AI-driven economic landscape by infusing AI into both consumer and enterprise sectors.
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The reorganization has left Hiroshi Lockheimer, the former chief of the software division, without a clear role. Although he participated in the interview with Osterloh, it was noted that Lockheimer would be moving on to other projects within the company, as detailed in a letter from CEO Sundar Pichai.
While these changes are poised to reshape Google’s approach to product development, they are not expected to immediately impact consumer products directly.
However, they underscore Google’s commitment to integrating AI more deeply into its ecosystem, potentially setting new standards for the technology industry.
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