Handheld maker Handspring cut 20 percent of its workforce, or about 80 employees, this week, CNET News.com has learned.
Company spokesman Allen Bush said the cuts, which hit the marketing department hardest, are part of Handspring"s effort to trim costs and focus on its Treo line of wireless handhelds as opposed to its traditional, nonwireless organizers.
"We"re doing some reorganization to allow us to better focus the business," Bush said. The company will give further details on the cuts during its Oct. 17 earnings conference call, Bush said.
Employees were notified of the layoffs Monday. Handspring said the cuts will significantly lower the revenue level at which the company can break even.
Two vice presidents are leaving as part of the job cuts, which for the most part are effective immediately. Additionally, manufacturing VP Mike Gallucci plans to retire later this year.