As the Pixel Fold continues to capture attention worldwide, a pertinent question arises: should Google launch the Pixel Fold in India?
Google’s entry into the foldable smartphone market with the Pixel Fold has generated considerable buzz. Unveiled on May 10, 2023, at the Google I/O keynote, this Android-powered foldable device has already made its mark. Apart from its sleek design and versatile features, the Pixel Fold has been a game-changer in the smartphone industry. However, as of now, it’s available only in select markets.
- Germany
- Japan
- United Kingdom
- United States
Pixel Fold unveiled: A brief overview
The Pixel Fold stands out with its innovative design and advanced features. The device, officially released in the United States on June 28, boasts a familiar smartphone silhouette when closed, fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand and sliding effortlessly into your pocket. However, the real magic happens when you flip it open, revealing an expansive 7.6-inch screen with a remarkably thin profile.
Whether opened or closed, the Pixel Fold promises a multitude of possibilities for entertainment and productivity. Its unique design opens up new ways to have fun and get things done. Currently available in two elegant colors, Porcelain and Obsidian.
OnePlus’s success in India: A benchmark for Google Pixel Fold?
To make an informed decision about introducing the Pixel Fold in India, Google can draw inspiration from OnePlus’s remarkable success with the OnePlus Open in the country. Firstly, the OnePlus Open, a foldable smartphone model, witnessed a resounding debut, surpassing the sales figures of any other foldable device on its first day in India. Furthermore, its popularity continued to soar, making headlines as the top-selling foldable device at Reliance Digital and dominating sales in the over INR 1 lakh ($1199) category on Amazon.in.
The success of OnePlus Open in India serves as a clear indicator of the existing demand for premium foldable smartphones in the country. In light of this, Google can leverage this trend and tap into the potentially lucrative Indian market by introducing the Pixel Fold.
Governmental encouragement
The interest in bringing the Pixel Fold to India is not limited to consumer demand alone. In fact, the IT minister of India, Ashwini Vaishnaw, has expressed a keen interest in Google expanding its presence in the country. During the Google for India event, he suggested that Google should initiate the production of its Tensor chipset in India within three years. Furthermore, he urged Google to introduce the premium Pixel Fold devices to the Indian market at the earliest.
This endorsement from a government official adds a layer of encouragement for Google. It not only signals the market potential perceived by consumers but also highlights a supportive regulatory environment that recognizes the value of advanced technology and premium devices in the Indian landscape.
Where to buy Google Pixel Fold in India?
While the official release of the Pixel Fold in India is eagerly awaited, I have found alternative ways to get this device. Various online platforms and international sellers offer unofficial imports of the Pixel Fold. Here’s the list of some of them:
| Model | Platform | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel Fold 5G 256 GB | iTradeit | INR 169,990 ($2038) |
| Sahivalue | INR 169,990 ($2038) | |
| BOE | INR 179,990 ($2158) |