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Amazon has cut jobs in its devices and services division, even as the company continues to introduce new products across its hardware lineup. The latest layoffs were announced on Wednesday, October 28, following several weeks of product launches that included new Kindle e-readers and tablet computers. A person familiar with the matter said the cuts affected up to 250 employees, mainly in software development.
Amazon said the workforce reduction was intended to improve efficiency and align its teams more closely with the company's product roadmap. In a message to employees, Cherie Robinson, a human resources vice president in the devices and services division, said the company had conducted a detailed review of its organisational structure before deciding to reduce roles.
On Wednesday, Amazon also announced new Alexa-powered devices, including a smart alarm clock and a digital photo frame. These launches expand its connected-home lineup as it looks to strengthen Alexa's role in everyday household activities.
The timing of the announcements puts the latest restructuring alongside an ongoing push to develop and sell new consumer products. However, Amazon has not said that the new launches directly caused the job reductions.
The latest reductions come weeks after Amazon cut approximately 1,000 jobs in its core retail division earlier in October. The company has been reviewing its workforce and organisational structure across different business areas.
The devices division layoffs add to those changes, although Amazon has not provided a broader breakdown of the latest reductions or indicated whether further cuts are planned in the unit. Amazon is scheduled to report its third-quarter financial results after the US stock market closes on Thursday.
