Google is shaking up its AI leadership, with Josh Woodward replacing Sissie Hsaio as the head of the Gemini app, according to Semafor. The move signals a strategic shift as Google gears up for what it calls the “next evolution” of its AI chatbot.
Sissie Hsaio, who spearheaded the launch of Google’s Gemini AI chatbot (formerly Bard), is stepping down after nearly two decades with the company. According to Semafor, a memo from Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis indicates the change is aimed at sharpening focus on the Gemini app’s future development. Google spokesperson Alex Joseph confirmed the leadership change to Semafor but offered no further comment.
Hsaio’s tenure at Google began in 2006, and she assumed the role of head of Gemini apps in 2021. Semafor reports that Hsaio will take a “short break” before returning to Google in a new role.
Josh Woodward, currently the VP of Google Labs, will retain his position while leading Gemini. Semafor notes that he previously developed NotebookLM, Google’s AI-powered note-taking application. NotebookLM, featuring an Audio Overview tool, had been integrated into Google’s One AI Premium subscription. Users now have the capability to create AI podcasts from Gemini’s Deep Research.
