<ul data-eligibleForWebStory="true">Google is implementing a stricter return-to-office policy for employees, emphasizing in-person presence and uniform work arrangements.Employees within 50 miles of a Google office are required to follow a hybrid work model, spending three days a week in the office.The policy will be fully effective by September 2025 and aims to establish consistent work norms and routines.Teams like Search, Ads, Commerce, and Core Engineering are directly affected, with exceptions for certain departments like DeepMind and YouTube.Employees not complying with the new policy may opt for voluntary exit packages through the Voluntary Exit Programme.Google is scaling back remote work privileges to focus on collaboration, employee accountability, and team cohesiveness.The company believes that face-to-face interaction is crucial for its long-term goals, particularly in advancing AI and infrastructure.The updated policy signals Google's eagerness to reduce remote flexibility and enhance in-person work engagements.