Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro to Be Made in India: Dixon Technologies Partnership Details, Expected Launch in September

Google is taking a significant step in expanding its manufacturing footprint by producing the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in India. This move aligns with the company’s strategy to decentralize its supply chain from China and embrace India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. Here’s an in-depth look at the latest developments in Google’s manufacturing plans.

Made in India Pixel 8 Series Coming Soon

A recent report from the Economic Times indicates that Google has commenced the production of the Pixel 8 series in India. This is a notable milestone, as Google was previously the only major global smartphone brand not manufacturing devices in India. However, the company announced last year that it would begin making the Pixel 8 in India in 2024.

Partnership with Dixon Technologies

Google has partnered with Dixon Technologies, a prominent Indian electronics manufacturer, to produce the Pixel 8 series. Dixon Technologies has started trial production, with the first batch expected to be available by September. The company plans to manufacture around 100,000 units per month, with 25-30% of these units intended for export.

Padget Electronics, a subsidiary of Dixon Technologies, will handle the manufacturing. Padget recently signed an agreement with Compal Electronics, a Taiwan-based manufacturing partner for Google, to facilitate the production process.

Strategic Benefits

Google’s decision to manufacture locally in India is driven by several factors. One significant motivator is the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme for mobile phones in India, which offers financial incentives to boost local manufacturing. Additionally, the competitive production costs provided by Dixon Technologies make this a financially viable move for Google.

Pricing and Market Impact

The Pixel smartphones have traditionally been priced higher than many of their competitors. The latest Pixel 8a, for example, is more expensive than its predecessor, the Pixel 7a. With local manufacturing, there is potential for a reduction in prices for Indian consumers, although it remains to be seen how significant this impact will be. The move might also pave the way for other Pixel models to be produced in India in the future.

Conclusion

Google’s partnership with Dixon Technologies to manufacture the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro in India marks a significant shift in its production strategy. This initiative not only supports India’s ‘Make in India’ drive but also offers potential cost benefits that could make Pixel devices more accessible to Indian consumers. As production ramps up, the market will be keenly watching to see how these ‘Made in India’ devices perform in terms of pricing and availability.