Google is reintroducing in-person interviews for select roles, particularly in engineering and programming, as part of a broader effort to curb the growing misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) tools during virtual hiring processes.
The decision, confirmed by CEO Sundar Pichai during a June appearance on the Lex Fridman podcast, reflects mounting concerns over the integrity of remote assessments and the reliability of candidate evaluations.
Sundar stated that Google will “introduce at least one round of in-person interviews for people, just to make sure the fundamentals are there”.
The move comes amid internal discussions and employee feedback urging leadership to reconsider fully remote hiring practices.
AI Cheating: A Widespread Challenge for Google
Recruiters at Google have observed a troubling trend in virtual technical interviews.
More than 50% of candidates are suspected of using AI tools to solve real-time coding challenges.
These tools, often used off-camera, compromise the company’s ability to assess core competencies and problem-solving skills.
During a February 2025 internal town hall, Google employees raised concerns about the reliability of virtual interviews.
One employee asked, “Can we get onsite job interviews back? There are many email threads about this topic. If budget is a constraint, can we get the candidates to an office or environment we can control?”
Brian Ong, Google’s Vice President of Recruiting, acknowledged the issue, noting that while virtual interviews are faster and easier to schedule, they pose a “fundamental challenge” in verifying candidate authenticity.
Hybrid Interview Model Proposed
In response to these concerns, Google is exploring a hybrid interview model.
Virtual interviews will continue to be used because they offer logistical convenience.
However, for roles requiring direct assessment of technical skills, at least one round of in-person interviews will be added.
Sundar emphasized that this approach would help candidates better understand Google’s culture and allow interviewers to assess skills more accurately.
“Given we all work hybrid, I think it’s worth thinking about some fraction of the interviews being in person,” he said.
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