Google has officially rolled out its first batch of Pixel 8 smartphones made in India, just hours before unveiling its new Pixel 9 series. This move marks a significant step in Google’s strategy to enhance its presence in the Indian market.
The locally produced Pixel 8 models are now ready, following nearly 10 months of planning for Indian manufacturing. Notably, this rollout is limited to the Pixel 8, with no immediate plans to produce other models like the Pixel 8a locally, according to TechCrunch.
On Monday, Google India announced via X (formerly Twitter) that the Made-in-India Pixel 8 has begun rolling off production lines. While the local manufacturing partners have yet to be officially named, reports suggest that Compal, Google’s global manufacturing partner, has teamed up with India’s Dixon Technologies for local assembly.
Google’s goal is to ship over 10 million Pixel phones globally this year, matching the volume from 2023. The move to manufacture Pixel 8 devices in India aligns with Google’s efforts to streamline operations, reduce costs, and offer competitive pricing in the burgeoning Indian smartphone market. This initiative comes as Apple aggressively scales up its local production of iPhones through Foxconn and Tata Electronics, with about $14 billion worth of iPhones made in India by the end of FY24.
In terms of pricing, Google’s Pixel 8 may follow a similar trajectory to Apple’s iPhone models, which took time to stabilise and reduce prices after local manufacturing began. Consumers might see more affordable Pixel 8 models in the Indian market in the future.
Looking ahead, Google is set to make a splash with its upcoming ‘Made by Google’ event. Scheduled to showcase the new Pixel 9 series, the event is expected to introduce four new devices: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Additionally, Google is anticipated to unveil the Pixel Watch 3 and Pixel Buds Pro 2.
This year’s Google event precedes Apple’s usual fall launch, as Google aims to stay ahead with advancements in AI and other innovations. The event is scheduled for 10:30 PM IST and will be livestreamed on Google’s official channel.
