Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced major management changes in a memo to staff on Thursday, reshuffling key positions and teams.

Key changes:

1. Prabhakar Raghavan transitions to the role of chief technologist.
   • Previously led search, announcements and other critical segments.
   • Will provide technical direction and leadership.
2. Nick Fox takes over Raghavan’s former responsibilities.
   • Will lead the search, advertising, geolocation and commerce divisions.
   • Known for launching Google Fi messaging and RCS.
3. Gemini App Team joins Google DeepMind.
   • Directed by Sissie Hsaio.
   • Now under the leadership of CEO Demis Hassabis.
4. The Google Assistant team moves across platforms and devices.

Why we care. Google’s leadership shakeup could significantly influence the direction of Google’s AI, ads, and search strategies. The moves come at a time when Google is under competitive pressure in the AI ​​space and faces possible antitrust actions, meaning its advertising products could evolve quickly to meet regulatory and technological challenges.

Between the lines: This shakeup appears aimed at streamlining AI efforts and strengthening Google’s technical leadership.

What they say: Pichai said Raghavan would “return to his IT roots” in this new role.

The big picture: Google navigates:

• Potential threat of disruption linked to American antitrust action.
• Intense competition in AI development.

What’s next. How these changes will affect Google’s AI strategy and its response to regulatory challenges.

The essentials. Google’s leadership shakeup marks a strategic shift as the company faces both technological and regulatory hurdles.