Google will start manufacturing of Pixel phones in India, first devices expected in 2024

Alphabet Inc's Google has announced its decision to produce its flagship Pixel smartphones in India, joining the ranks of tech giants such as Apple and Samsung in local manufacturing. Google's ambitious endeavor includes the production of Pixel 8 devices, set to hit the market by 2024.

This strategic move was unveiled during the annual Google for India event, emphasizing Google's commitment to expanding its device production capabilities and satisfying the rising demand for Pixel smartphones in India.

Google's Pledge to Produce Pixel Phones in India

Google's Senior Vice-President for Devices and Services, Rick Osterloh, affirmed the company's intent to collaborate with international contract manufacturers for the production of the Google Pixel series in India. He stated, "We will start manufacturing Google Pixel series smartphones in India."

Osterloh underscored Google's long-term commitment to hardware development and investment. This plan to manufacture in India is an initial step in a broader journey aimed at fulfilling the burgeoning appetite for Pixel smartphones in the country.

A Positive Development for Google and India

Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw commended Google's initiative, highlighting the mutual benefits for both the company and the nation. The move is expected to enhance Google's global footprint while contributing to India's manufacturing ecosystem.

Google's Search for Local Partners

Reports indicated that Google had been engaged in discussions with domestic manufacturers, including Lava, Dixon, and Bharat FIH, along with suppliers. This effort aligns with the larger trend among Western tech giants to diversify their manufacturing base and reduce dependence on China, a strategy that gained momentum in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following in Apple's Footsteps

Google's move mirrors Apple's strategy, as the Cupertino-based company had previously unveiled a billion-dollar local manufacturing plan in South India. Recent iPhone 15 models now bear the "Assembled in India" tag, signifying the success of this localization initiative.

Sundar Pichai's Visit and Local Partnerships

The decision to manufacture in India gained traction following Alphabet Chief Sundar Pichai's visit to the country. During the visit, discussions with IT Minister Vaishnaw took place, and prospective local partners for Google have been approved under the PLI (production-linked incentive) scheme.

Conclusion:

Google's announcement to manufacture Pixel smartphones in India signals a significant milestone in the company's commitment to hardware production and its aspirations to cater to the growing demand for Pixel devices in the country. The move is anticipated to have a positive impact on both Google and India's technological landscape.

Relevant and latest facts for the above news.

• Google's announcement comes at a time when the Indian government is actively promoting the growth of the electronics manufacturing sector through a number of initiatives, such as the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.

• Google's local manufacturing partners are all eligible for benefits under the PLI scheme.

• The Indian smartphone market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14% from 2022 to 2026, reaching a value of $300 billion by 2026.

• India is the second largest smartphone market in the world, with over 600 million smartphone users.

• The availability of locally manufactured Pixel phones is likely to make them more affordable for Indian consumers.

• Google's move to manufacture Pixel phones in India is likely to create jobs and boost economic growth.

• Google's announcement is a positive development for both the company and the country.

• Google's decision to manufacture in India is seen as a major boost to India's efforts to become a global hub for electronics manufacturing.

• Google's move is likely to have a positive impact on the Indian economy.