Google is reportedly in talks with Indian suppliers to assemble its Pixel smartphones, following in the footsteps of Apple’s strategy to diversify beyond China. There were reports regarding Google moving some Pixel production to India back in September.
The company has initiated discussions with domestic firms like Lava International and Dixon Technologies India, as well as Foxconn Technology Group’s Indian unit, Bharat FIH, reports Bloomberg.
These suppliers have been approved for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s production-linked financial incentives (PLI), which aim to boost local manufacturing. By exploring production in India, Google aims to reduce its reliance on China and leverage the benefits of the Make in India initiative.
The discussions between Google and Indian suppliers come after a meeting between Indian Minister for Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, and Google CEO Sundar Pichai.The two reportedly discussed the possibility of manufacturing Google devices in India, aiming to bridge the gap in the company’s presence in the country’s manufacturing sector.
Apple expanded its supplier base and iPhone manufacture using India’s PLI initiatives. If the talks materialize, Google will join the ranks of major brands like Apple, Samsung and OPPO, who have chosen India as a manufacturing hub.
It will enhance employment and India’s electronics manufacturing position. We should get more information regarding this matter in the coming weeks.