The Google headquarters in Silicon Valley, California, US. ARCHIVE

Tech giant Google has laid off more than 200 contractors working on artificial intelligence projects such as Gemini and AI Overviews, fueling concerns over automation, job security, and retaliation against unionization efforts. The mass layoffs reportedly took place in at least two rounds last month, with little or no prior notice to affected workers. Andrew Lauzon, a contractor who worked on rating and refining Gemini’s chatbot responses, told WIRED: “I was just cut off… I asked for a reason, and they said ramp-down on the project—whatever that means.” The laid-off contractors, often called “super raters,” were responsible for evaluating AI-generated answers to ensure accuracy, natural flow, and proper sourcing. Many of them hold advanced degrees in fields such as education and the arts. Ricardo Levario, one of the first super raters and a former teacher, said pay inequality was a major issue. “GlobalLogic paid directly hired raters $28 to $32 per hour, while third-party contractors received $18 to $22 per hour for identical work,” Levario said. Workers also alleged that the layoffs targeted those advocating for better wages and unionization. Complaints have been filed with the US National Labor Relations Board. Google denied direct responsibility, pointing out that the contractors were employed by GlobalLogic and its subcontractors. “As the employers, GlobalLogic and their subcontractors are responsible for the employment and working conditions of their employees,” said spokesperson Courtenay Mencini. Still, internal documents suggest that automation tools are being developed to replace some human rater tasks, heightening fears that AI systems are eliminating the very workers who helped train them. Labor experts say Google’s treatment of outsourced AI workers reflects a wider trend in the tech industry, where contract data workers face precarious conditions despite playing crucial roles in AI development. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page