HP Collaborates with Google to Manufacture Chromebooks in India, Targeting Increased Adoption

Leading personal computer manufacturer HP has unveiled a new partnership with Google to locally manufacture Chromebooks in India. These Chromebooks, featuring Google's Chromebook OS and known for their affordability, built-in security, and accessibility features, are set to be produced in HP's Flex Facility near Chennai.

Addressing the Demand for Affordable PCs in India

HP's move aims to address the growing demand for affordable computing devices in India, especially within the education sector. While Chromebooks currently hold a low-single-digit market share in HP's overall portfolio in India, the local production initiative targets a surge in demand, particularly from government schools emphasizing digital education.

Production Powerhouse, Local Flavor:

The production line will run near Chennai, where HP already manufactures a range of laptops and desktops. This strategic location leverages existing infrastructure and expertise.

Chromebooks for Educational Sector Expansion

The introduction of locally manufactured Chromebooks, falling in the price range of Rs 20,000–30,000, is anticipated to cater to the burgeoning demand for cost-effective PCs in government schools. Additionally, HP plans to position its 11-inch Chromebooks to compete with the 9-inch tablet market, aiming to secure orders from educational institutions.

Competitive Pricing and Manufacturing

Despite the localization of manufacturing, HP intends to maintain competitive pricing for Chromebooks. The devices, produced at the Flex Facility starting October 2, are geared toward offering affordable, high-quality computing solutions for students, aligning with the 'Make in India' initiative.

HP's Commitment to Digital Equity and 'Make in India' Initiative

Vickram Bedi, Senior Director–Personal Systems, HP India, expressed HP's commitment to advancing digital equity and supporting the 'Make in India' initiative. The local production of Chromebook laptops is geared toward enabling easy access to affordable PCs for Indian students, furthering the digital education agenda.

Quotes for Depth:

• Vickram Bedi, Senior Director–Personal Systems, HP India: "Manufacturing Chromebooks in India allows Indian students to get easy access to affordable PCs... We continue to support the Make in India initiative."

• Bani Dhawan, Head of Education–South Asia, Google: "This collaboration will help accelerate the adoption of technology in more schools... Every student and educator has access to the tools and skills to pursue their personal potential."

Google's Role in Transforming Digital Education

Google's Chromebook is gaining traction in India's education sector, acknowledged by Bani Dhawan, Head of Education–South Asia, Google. The partnership with HP is a significant step in facilitating digital-first learning experiences, accelerating the adoption of technology in educational institutions.

Impact on the Digital Education Ecosystem

The collaboration between HP and Google aims to fortify the digital education ecosystem in India, ensuring increased accessibility to safe, high-quality, and affordable computing devices for students, educators, and institutions.