Google Takes a Significant Step: Plans to Manufacture Pixel Smartphones in India

Google has announced its plans to begin assembling its Pixel smartphone series in India, a move that underscores the increasing focus on the South Asian market for device manufacturing. Senior VP of Devices and Services at Google, Rick Osterloh, revealed that the company will kickstart local manufacturing with the current Pixel 8 smartphone, with shipments of the India-made batch set to commence next year. This development comes on the heels of Google's recent collaboration with HP to manufacture Chromebook laptops within the country.

Google Expands Its Reach: Pixel Smartphones to Be Assembled in India

In a significant move, Google has announced plans to assemble its Pixel smartphone lineup in India. This decision underscores Google's confidence in the South Asian market for device manufacturing.

Local Manufacturing Initiatives

Google's endeavor into local manufacturing is set to commence with the production of the current Pixel 8 smartphone in India. The company anticipates shipping the first batch of India-made Pixel devices next year. Rick Osterloh, Senior VP of Devices and Services at Google, shared this development during the company's annual India event.

 Credit: Hindustan Times via Getty Images

Broadening Production Horizons

This announcement comes on the heels of Google's recent collaboration with HP to manufacture Chromebook laptops within India. Osterloh expressed, "We are partnering with international and domestic partners to produce Pixel smartphones locally. It’s an early step towards expanding our production here to meet the local demands for Pixel devices, and even more importantly, it’s a huge step forward in Google’s commitment to India."

India's Rising Manufacturing Appeal

Google's commitment to manufacturing in India aligns with the company's recognition of India as its largest market for many services, and its pledge to invest over $10 billion in the country in the coming years. Google joins the ranks of tech giants betting on India as a burgeoning manufacturing hub, with Apple's manufacturing partners already assembling iPhones in the country.

India's attractive incentives, including tax reductions and production-linked incentive schemes, are enticing global companies to establish manufacturing bases within the country. This trend, known as the "China + 1" strategy, is emerging as companies seek to diversify their manufacturing away from China.

Macquarie analysts foresee significant opportunities in India's electronics and manufacturing sector, as global players look to meet domestic demand and explore export opportunities. India's electronic manufacturing services (EMS) industry is on the verge of substantial medium-term growth, presenting opportunities for a wide range of players, from ODM/OEM product manufacturers to electronics component manufacturers catering to various industries.

Google's decision to assemble Pixel smartphones in India represents a pivotal move, aligning with India's ascent as a key player in global tech manufacturing.