On another site, apparently there was an internal document floating around that they have February 2023 as the day the takeover goes through.
That sounds a bit ambitious. Little Symantec did take 3 months, but larger CA technologies took 6 mo. Then you have behemoth VMware with its multitude complexities at 8 mo? I'd rather believe what Hock said 6-12....more likely 12 mo.
In any case February 2023 gives a lot of time to do a Plan B. So study as much as you can and start maybe in November interviewing.
Remember that FAANGs like Facebook or Google give a penalty of 1-2 yrs before you can interview again. So to MAXIMIZE your success, don't panic and start getting into Championship form. If you go in there like a fat boxer, you'll get your a-s kicked. Get into fight shape by planning a well thought out action plan (i.e. Leetcode).
If you come out swinging in Nov/Dec., ideally by February you can collect severance (if laid off) and collect TWO checks!
DON'T stress too much. Take it in stride. I've seen layoffs at every company I've ever worked for--and like many have said, the great majority end up better in the end with more pay/title with the benefit of forcing you to keep your skills current. Just have 4-6 months savings for these contingencies. Keep your skills sharp (VMware pays $5k for classes) and you'll always find a good job!
The great thing is that the layoff is being telegraphed almost a year out! Much time to plan well! It would be much harder if you got PIPed or were part of some annual culling and have to scramble for a new job on short notice......Just make sure not to mess about by taking looong vacations during this critical time. I've seen people do this after a RIFF and they're the only group I'd say that have a harder go of things. So use the time you have wisely and all will be well!
Pray to God and keep happy. Life is too short to cry over this cr-p. I loved my time at this company. Maybe I survive the culling. But if not, I'll be prepared!!