Apple has allegedly laid off dozens of employees working on its self-driving car initiative. The layoffs signal a change in Apple's plans for the project codenamed Project Titan. The technology giant has never acknowledged the existence of the project, despite filing a large number of patents for technologies related to autonomous cars.
According to NYTimes, Apple has been unable to make a breakthrough despite pouring a substantial amount of resources into the project. In July, the company appointed Bob Mansfield, a high-profile Apple veteran, to oversee the initiative. Apple is said to be in the testing phase for some of the cars.
The autonomous car segment is full of competition. Apart from technology companies such as Apple and Google, various prominent automakers including Ford are turning their focus to this sector.
Due to the stiff competition, Apple may be looking to change its stance on self-driving cars. According to The Verge, the company may focus on developing software for self-driving cars instead of building a full-fledged car.
Apple self-driving car project has been shrouded in mystery since its inception. The company is said to be in the process of testing vehicles in a closed environment. The tests are being conducted on limited operating routes.
Apple has declined requests for comment on the issue.