Dave Burke steps down as Android engineering VP
Dave Burke has announced that he will be stepping away from his role as the VP of Android engineering but will continue to serve as an advisor. He is now looking to explore new "AI/bio projects" within Google, although the details of his successor have yet to be revealed.
Burke's decision to transition to a new role comes following a recent reorganization of the Platforms & Devices team earlier this year. In a surprise announcement, Burke shared that after 14 years of leading Android engineering, he believes that "it's time for a change" and will be focusing on advising for the time being.
Exploring New Projects
In a detailed email to his colleagues, Burke expressed his excitement about exploring AI and bio projects within Google, with the guidance of CEO Sundar Pichai. Burke emphasized the potential of AI in accelerating drug discovery, particularly in areas like hard-to-treat pediatric cancers, which is a cause close to his heart.
Burke joined Google in 2007 and assumed the role of VP of Engineering for Android in 2014. Throughout his tenure, he played a significant role in shaping Android into the platform it is today. He also made notable appearances at Google I/O, showcasing the latest features and developments for the platform.
Reflecting on his contributions, Burke mentioned his pride in the team he helped build as Android users scaled from 1 million to over 3 billion. His departure coincides with broader changes within Google, including the restructuring that combined the software and hardware divisions into the Platforms & Devices team under the leadership of Rick Osterloh.
Looking Ahead
While Burke did not disclose his successor, he assured that a well-thought-out succession plan is in place, with more details to be shared soon. His departure may be part of the reorganization within the Platforms & Devices team, indicating a shift in leadership dynamics at Google.
As the tech industry evolves, Burke's decision marks a significant transition after his long-standing commitment to Android engineering. His legacy and impact on the platform will be remembered as Google navigates through these organizational changes.
Sources: LinkedIn, Yahoo Tech, Yahoo Tech, 9to5Google
