'Made in India' Google Pixel phones will reportedly be exported to US & EU

Google is set to establish India as a key export hub for its Pixel smartphones, with plans to ship devices to Europe and the United States. The tech giant will soon start commercial production through partnerships with Foxconn and Dixon Technologies’ subsidiary, Padget Electronics.

Trial production has already begun in Tamil Nadu with Foxconn, a major Apple device manufacturer. Dixon Technologies will produce the base variants, while Foxconn will handle the Pro models, as highlighted in a report by Money Control. Commercial production is expected to commence in September, with exports beginning once production stabilizes.

Google aims to leverage India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, as domestic demand for Pixel phones remains low. The company plans to export most locally produced devices from both Foxconn and Dixon facilities.

This move follows Apple’s successful manufacturing expansion in India, where it assembled $14 billion worth of iPhones in FY24. Google’s decision to manufacture in India could help it gain market share through potential discounts on locally made devices.

A formal announcement from Google is anticipated in the second half of the year, coinciding with the expected launch of the Pixel 9 series on August 13. I’d suggest Pixel fans in India to not get overly excited, expecting a big price cut once Made in India Google Pixel phones go on sale. It might take years for buyers in India to start reaping the benefits, if at all. The Times of India have a good explanation for why this happens (taking iPhones into consideration), you can read about it here.