Web browser and search startup Brave has laid off 27 employees across various departments, as confirmed by the company. While specific details about the remaining headcount and the reasons for the layoffs were not disclosed, estimates suggest that the cuts represent approximately 14% of Brave’s total workforce. According to PitchBook, Brave employed around 191 people before the layoffs.
This latest round of job cuts comes just 10 months after Brave previously reduced its staff by 9% in October 2023, citing the need for cost management in a challenging economic environment.
Brave initially gained attention as a “blockchain browser” by incorporating several crypto-related features. However, the company has recently shifted its focus toward artificial intelligence (AI), rolling out various AI-driven products throughout the year. Notably, Brave introduced its AI assistant, Leo, across multiple platforms, including desktop, Android, iPad, and iPhone, in a staggered release.
In June, Brave integrated its own search results with the Leo chatbot, allowing users to interact with the AI assistant to obtain real-time information, such as sports scores or additional context for articles. The company has also launched a Leo Premium subscription for $14.99 per month, offering access to more advanced models and higher usage limits.
Recently, Brave began allowing all users to link their own AI models to the browser, expanding on a feature that had been in testing for several months. While the costs associated with developing and maintaining these AI features have not been disclosed, it remains unclear whether these expenses contributed to the recent layoffs.
