Google plans to shift most of its export and manufacturing operations including the assembling of mobile devices, Pixel 8 from India.
Google has begun assembling the Pixel 8 in India through its vendor, Wowtek Technology which runs a factory in Tamil Nadu.
Initially, only a limited number of phones will be assembled, but as production ramps up, Google plans to manufacture most of its new phones in India within three years.
This strategy reflects Apple’s move to shift a significant portion of iPhone assembly to India.
Currently, Pixel phones are manufactured in Vietnam and China. Google began assembling Pixel phones in China in 2016 and moved part of the production to Vietnam in 2019 due to rising US-China tensions.
India’s electronic manufacturing sector is rapidly growing, making it an attractive destination for tech giants like Google. By manufacturing in India, Google can not only reduce production costs but also contribute to the local economy, where the demand for high-quality smartphones is on the rise.
The ‘Made in India’ badge has the potential to significantly enhance the Pixel 8a’s appeal to Indian consumers, who may appreciate the focus on local production. This move could also set a precedent for other tech companies to follow suit, further solidifying India’s position in the global electronics manufacturing landscape.
A senior Meity official stated that a limited number of phones will be assembled initially. Still, as production stabilises, the plan is to gather most of their new phones in India within three years. This strategy mirrors Apple’s approach, which has shifted a sizable portion of iPhone assembly to India.