Google has begun selling its hardware, including Pixel phones, watches, and earbuds, directly to Indian consumers through its official Google Store website. This initiative marks the first instance in which Indian buyers can purchase Google's hardware directly online. The move aims to bolster Google's footprint in the Indian market as it prepares to roll out physical retail locations in the country.
India, with its roughly 712 million smartphone users, is a critical growth market for Google. The launch of direct online sales is part of a broader strategy to increase Google's market presence. According to Reuters, Google's Pixel phones currently capture a 2% share of India's premium smartphone market, significantly trailing behind Apple, which holds a commanding 55% share.
In addition to direct online sales, Google is keen on establishing a local manufacturing base for its Pixel devices in India, aligning with the government’s 'Make in India' initiative. Furthermore, the tech giant is nearing completion of selecting sites in New Delhi and Mumbai for its inaugural physical retail stores outside the United States, a strategic move to better compete with Apple's established retail dominance.