In a recent development, Humane, the Silicon Valley startup founded by CEO Bethany Bongiorno and Imran Chaudhri in 2019, has undergone significant organizational changes, including a 4% reduction in its workforce. The move, described as a cost-cutting measure, precedes the imminent launch of the company’s highly anticipated product, the AI Pin.
Sources familiar with the matter reveal that 10 employees, constituting 4% of Humane’s workforce, were affected by the recent layoffs. Employees had reportedly been informed earlier about potential budget reductions, setting the stage for the workforce adjustments.
Humane’s flagship product, the AI Pin, priced at $699, aims to revolutionize the smartphone market with its screenless, AI-powered design. The startup, having raised over $200 million from prominent Silicon Valley investors, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, unveiled the AI Pin in November, with preorders underway and shipments scheduled to commence in March.
When approached for comment, CEO Bethany Bongiorno acknowledged the workforce reductions but framed them as part of a broader organizational restructuring aligned with the company’s growth trajectory. Founding CTO Patrick Gates is said to be transitioning to an advisory role to prioritize family commitments.
While Bongiorno insisted that the cuts were not communicated as layoffs to the affected individuals, sources claim otherwise. According to insider information, the impact of the workforce reductions was conveyed both verbally and in writing.
In response to inquiries, Bongiorno took to LinkedIn to elaborate on the changes. She described the cuts as “part of a wider refresh of our organizational structure as our company evolves with purpose for this next phase of growth.” Bongiorno announced the transition of Patrick Gates to an advisory position and highlighted promotions within the company, including new heads of hardware, software, and people.
In a text message, Bongiorno emphasized the company’s responsibility to remain prudent and proactive, ensuring the right roles, people, and structure at every juncture. She positioned the changes as necessary steps for Humane’s evolution and growth.
| Key Points: | Details: |
|---|---|
| Workforce Reductions | 4% reduction, affecting 10 employees. |
| AI Pin Launch | $699 device, screenless, AI-powered. |
| Funding and Investors | Over $200 million raised from Silicon Valley. |
| CEO’s Response on LinkedIn | Restructuring for the next phase of growth. |
| Communication Discrepancies | Sources claim layoffs were communicated. |
| Future Plans and Evolution | Emphasis on responsibility for prudent growth. |
As Humane prepares to release its groundbreaking AI Pin, these organizational changes signify a pivotal moment for the startup as it navigates the delicate balance between growth, responsibility, and stakeholder expectations.
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