Google Pixel 8 Series Smartphones Made in India Could go on Sale as Early as Q2, 2024: Report

In a strategic move to diversify its production base, Google has announced plans to initiate the manufacturing of its Pixel 8 series in India. According to a report by Nikkei Asia, the tech giant has instructed its suppliers to commence the manufacturing process of Pixel smartphones in India as soon as the next quarter, potentially starting in April 2024.

This decision underscores Google's effort to reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing units amidst rising geopolitical tensions and to tap into the burgeoning tech manufacturing sector in India.

Expanding Manufacturing Base to India

Google is poised to establish multiple manufacturing units across India, beginning with a facility in the country's southern region. The "Made in India" Pixel 8 Pro units are anticipated to be available for purchase from April to June.

Subsequently, the company plans to inaugurate another production unit in the northern part of India dedicated to manufacturing the standard Google Pixel 8 model. This move is part of Google's broader strategy to decentralize its supply chain, which previously saw the company begin manufacturing Pixel smartphones in Vietnam due to the escalating US-China tensions.

By expanding its manufacturing footprint to India, Google joins the ranks of other leading OEMs like Apple and Samsung, which already have established production units within the country. Google's decision to manufacture Pixel smartphones in India aligns with the Indian government's ambitious drive to position the country as a global hub for tech manufacturing.

The government is extending various incentives to attract tech companies to set up manufacturing operations within its borders. For Google, this not only facilitates the diversification of its supply chain but also strengthens its presence in the Indian market, where it seeks to enhance its market share.

Google's "Made in India" Goal

At last year's Google for India event, the company unveiled its intention to start producing Pixel smartphones in India, with an aim to have "Made in India" Pixel handsets available by 2024. Google aspires to ship over 10 million Pixel smartphones in 2024, a goal that the establishment of Indian manufacturing facilities could significantly contribute towards achieving.

In 2023, Google successfully sold around 10 million Pixel handsets, setting a strong precedent for its future endeavors in the Indian market. Google's strategic shift to manufacturing in India not only reflects its adaptability to global supply chain challenges but also represents a significant step towards fostering closer economic ties with one of the world's largest emerging tech markets.

Source