Apple has confirmed layoff of more than 600 employees

Apple has redirected its focus on generative AI initiatives

Apple closed its car and MicroLED Apple Watch projects

Apple has confirmed the layoff of more than 600 employees, marking a significant shift in its project focus. The tech behemoth has redirected its attention towards generative AI initiatives following the closure of its car and MicroLED Apple Watch projects.

Reports emerged in February this year detailing Apple’s decision to shutter its long-anticipated car project, which had been in development since 2014.

Employees associated with the project were either reassigned or faced termination. Shortly thereafter, Apple also abandoned plans for the Apple Watch Ultra featuring a MicroLED display, resulting in further layoffs. However, the company remained silent on the matter until now.

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According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple has officially confirmed the layoffs, affecting more than 600 employees. This move comes in the wake of the termination of the car and MicroLED projects, signaling a strategic pivot within the company.

Documents filed with the California Employment Development Department under the WARN program outline the extent of the layoffs across various locations, primarily in California. These layoffs represent a significant restructuring within Apple’s operations.

Moreover, Apple’s renewed focus on generative AI projects is evident with its recent acquisition of talent. Alexander Wong, a prominent AI researcher previously involved in DarwinAI’s development, has joined Apple as a director in its AI division.

This acquisition also saw numerous employees from Darwin AI integrating into Apple’s AI division, further bolstering its capabilities in this domain.