Amazon cuts about 250 jobs in devices and services unit

Amazon cut about 250 jobs in its devices and services unit on October 28, with software-development roles primarily affected, according to people familiar with the matter and reports of the reductions. The company confirmed the cuts but did not give a number in its statement. Amazon said the reductions would help it operate more efficiently and better align staffing with its product roadmap. In an internal email, devices-and-services human resources vice president Cherie Robinson said the decision followed a thorough review of the company’s structure. A person familiar with the matter said no more than 250 positions were affected. Employees were informed by email and text messages early Wednesday, according to the reports. The reductions came as Amazon continued introducing consumer devices. On October 28, it announced Alexa-powered products, including an alarm clock and a photo frame. In recent weeks, it had also rolled out Kindle e-readers and tablet computers. The cuts primarily affected software-development roles, but the specific teams or product groups involved were not identified. Amazon has not said the reductions were tied to weaker product demand or canceled plans....