Tech behemoth Google is poised to start producing its Pixel smartphones in India, informed sources revealed to the BBC.
The manufacturing of these phones is scheduled to take place at a Foxconn facility already operational in Tamil Nadu, a state in the southern part of India. In addition, Google plans to produce drones independently within the same state.
Amid geopolitical tensions with Western countries, India has become a crucial hub for international corporations seeking to shift their production bases away from China.
Google had previously declared its intention to commence manufacturing Pixel smartphones in India, starting with the Pixel 8 model. “India is a key market for Pixel smartphones, and we are dedicated to delivering our best hardware and integrated software features to the Indian populace,” Google stated in a blog post.
This past Friday, sources indicated to the BBC that Google’s parent company, Alphabet, would manufacture advanced Pixel smartphones at the facility in Tamil Nadu, with production set to start within the current year.
A contract between Google and Foxconn has been signed to facilitate this new manufacturing initiative, according to the source.
Foxconn operates two facilities in Tamil Nadu. Near the city of Chennai, one of these sites is engaged in assembling iPhones for Apple.
Google’s decision to establish Pixel phone production in Tamil Nadu followed recent discussions between state officials and company executives.
The Tamil Nadu government released a statement saying that Google representatives are expected to meet with state Chief Minister MK Stalin in Chennai soon.
