This chart reveals how much Google has grown its head count in the last year

A chart accompanying the article shows the headcount trend over the past year. The company stated that the hiring is driven by a focus on long-term AI growth.

The 4,000 figure marks a significant acceleration from recent quarters, when Alphabet had slowed hiring as part of broader cost-cutting measures across the tech industry.

The company's long-term strategy hinges on AI as a key growth driver, and the increased hiring reflects an intention to build capacity for next-generation AI systems.