Google has started selling its hardware devices directly online in India for the first time, changing its retail strategy.Â
Until now, Google relied on authorised dealers and the Flipkart platform, but it has now opened the official Google Store for Indian consumers.Â
This is a step towards boosting the presence of Pixel phones, smartwatches, and earbuds in the world’s fastest-growing smartphone market.
India’s smartphone market is broad, currently with around 712 million users, and highly competitive. Apple leads the premium segment with about 55% market share, topping devices priced above $520. Google’s Pixel brand, by contrast, holds only 2%.Â
Despite the gap, Google is trying hard to increase its footprint. The company has started manufacturing Pixel phones locally, which should reduce costs and improve supply reliability.
Google’s decision to open physical stores in India, reportedly close to finalising locations, mirrors Apple’s approach. Apple operates flagship stores in Mumbai and New Delhi and plans to expand further.Â
These brick-and-mortar outlets have helped Apple showcase its products directly to customers and build a strong retail brand. Google appears intent on replicating this model to better connect with Indian consumers.
The Google Store in India now offers attractive purchase options, including no-cost EMIs, instant cashback, trade-in bonuses, and UPI payment support. These features make Pixel devices more accessible, especially for buyers mindful of cost and flexibility.
The price range for Pixel phones in India spans roughly from $360 to $1,900 for premium models, while iPhones range between $520 and $2,100. The difference in market share underlines the challenge Google faces in changing consumer preferences in favour of its products.
This development means Google is now more aggressive in India, aiming to break the meet up with competition, expanding its influence in one of the world’s most important smartphone markets.
