The Blubber

Google's newly constructed Bay View campus in San Francisco is facing a significant Wi-Fi challenge, as reported by Reuters. Employees have been grappling with "inoperable" or "spotty" Wi-Fi for an extended period, a common occurrence in new construction projects. To mitigate the issue, some employees have upgraded to new laptops equipped with better Wi-Fi adapters, while others are resorting to using their phones as hotspots or seeking better signal outside the building. Google has acknowledged the problem and is actively working on a solution, although it may take several weeks to fully resolve.

In response to the Wi-Fi difficulties, employees have been relying on Ethernet cables or phone hotspots, with some advised to work from a nearby café or step outside for improved connectivity.

There is speculation among employees about the root cause of the poor internet connection. Some believe that the shape of the roof may be interfering with the signal, likening it to "the Bermuda Triangle," as described by Reuters' Greg Bensinger.

Google's Bay View campus, which opened in May 2022, marks the company's first major office space that it designed and constructed on its own. The expansive 1.1-million-square-foot campus boasts numerous amenities and features, including an on-campus hotel, a laundry room, stationary bikes that can charge your phone, and roofs equipped with "dragonscale solar skin" to power the buildings.

Upon closer inspection of interior views, one can see how the theory about the roof's impact on Wi-Fi signal strength emerged. Google's promotional video of the campus showcases massive curved panels towering over open-air office spaces, referred to as "team neighborhoods."

A Google spokesperson informed Reuters that the company is aware of the Wi-Fi connectivity issues at Bay View and is actively working on a resolution.

Google has been encouraging its employees to return to the office at least three days a week since April 2022, in contrast to many other tech firms that have continued to adhere to remote-working policies.