Following in Apple's footsteps, Google is possibly gearing up to start manufacturing its smartphones in India, having discussions with iPhone maker Foxconn about local production of the Pixel phones in Tamil Nadu. The office of the Chief Minister has officially revealed this anticipated move.
Considering the rising demand for premium smartphones in India, the second-largest mobile phone market globally, Google is contemplating local handset manufacturing. A prominent market like this can't be ignored, and Google desires to make its mark with locally produced phones.
Source: aajtak
Recently, Tamil Nadu's State Minister TRB Raja and a Foxconn official visited Google's HQ in the US for talks on setting up a manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu. However, specific details regarding Google's investment and employment opportunities in India are not disclosed yet.
A meeting with Tamil Nadu's CM MK Stalin is anticipated, in connection with the manufacturing initiative. Neither Google nor Foxcoon have yet issued any formal statements. Google's parent company Alphabet might also consider beginning drone manufacturing in India through its subsidiary, Wing LLC.
On the heels of Apple ramping up iPhone production in India, rumors of Google's manufacturing plans surface. Apple has notably assembled $14 billion worth of iPhones in India during FY 2024, translating to 14% of its total production. That means, out of every seven iPhones, one is made in India. Google first shared information about its manufacturing plans in India in 2023.
The company shared this update during the launch of the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. At that time, Google mentioned negotiations with both international and local manufacturers but has remained reticent with further details.
