Google, under Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL.O), is reportedly set to manufacture its Pixel smartphones in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu in collaboration with Taiwan’s Foxconn (2317.TW), according to two sources familiar with the matter on Thursday.
According to one of the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to lack of authorization to speak to the media, the latest models of Pixel smartphones will be produced at the existing Foxconn facility in Tamil Nadu.
Foxconn is already involved in assembling Apple’s iPhones at a facility near Chennai in the same state.
Amid geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington, major global manufacturers are exploring options to diversify their supply chains beyond China, with India being considered a favorable choice.
The source clarified that the investment in Tamil Nadu is distinct from the reported collaboration between Dixon (DIXO.NS) and Google for smartphone manufacturing in India. This decision reportedly followed discussions between Tamil Nadu officials and Google executives.
Initial reports about Google’s plans were first circulated by the news website Moneycontrol.
As of now, Google, Foxconn, and the Tamil Nadu government have not responded to requests from Reuters for comments.
