The company plans to produce the phones at an existing Foxconn facility in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Additionally, Google will independently manufacture drones in the same state.
India has become a key destination for global companies seeking to diversify their supply chains away from China amid geopolitical tensions with the West. Last year, Google announced plans to produce Pixel smartphones in India, starting with the Pixel 8.
“India is a priority market for Pixel smartphones, and we’re committed to bringing the best of our hardware and built-in software capabilities to people across the country,” the company stated in a blog post.
Sources said, Google will manufacture advanced versions of Pixel smartphones at the Tamil Nadu facility, with production set to begin within this calendar year. Google and Foxconn have signed a contract to this effect, according to the source.
Foxconn currently operates two facilities in Tamil Nadu, one of which assembles Apple’s iPhones near Chennai. Google’s decision to produce Pixel phones in Tamil Nadu follows recent meetings between state officials and company executives.
The Tamil Nadu government also stated that Google officials are scheduled to meet with the state’s Chief Minister MK Stalin in Chennai soon.
