Six per cent of the workforce to go as search and ad tech giant latest to announce layoffs, wants to refocus on AI.

Google is to lay off approximately 6% of its workforce and refocus on its priorities, including AI, according to an email sent to staff on Friday by CEO Sundar Pichai. The email was followed up by a blog post.

"We've decided to reduce our workforce by approximately 12,000 roles. We've already sent a separate email to employees in the US who are affected. In other countries, this process will take longer due to local laws and practices," Pichai wrote.

Pichai said the company will be reviewing its current operations in order to make the most of its early investments in AI.

"To fully capture it, we'll need to make tough choices. So, we've undertaken a rigorous review across product areas and functions to ensure that our people and roles are aligned with our highest priorities as a company."

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