Tech titan Google is gearing up to initiate production of its Pixel smartphones in India, as revealed by sources aware of the development speaking to agencies.
The manufacturing of these phones is set to take place at an existing Foxconn facility located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Additionally, Google plans to independently manufacture drones within the same state.
India has emerged as a prime location for global companies seeking to diversify their supply chains outside China, particularly in the midst of geopolitical tensions with the West.
Last year, Google had announced plans to commence the production of Pixel smartphones in India, launching with the Pixel 8 model. T
“India is a priority market for Pixel smartphones, and we’re committed to bringing the best of our hardware and underlying built-in software capabilities to people across the country,” it said in a blog post.
On Friday, sources further disclosed to agencies that Alphabet’s Google would create advanced versions of Pixel smartphones at the Tamil Nadu facility, with manufacturing expected to kick off within the current calendar year.
The source said that a contractual agreement has been signed between Google and Foxconn for this purpose.
Foxconn presently has two facilities in Tamil Nadu, and assembles Apple’s iPhones at one of its facilities near Chennai city. Google’s decision to make Pixel phones in Tamil Nadu was announced after recent discussions between state officials and company executives.
As per a statement from the Tamil Nadu government, Moreover, Google representatives are set to meet with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin in Chennai in the near future.
Agency: BBC
Also read: Google lays off 200 ‘Core’ staff from US: Moves part operation to India
