Google has officially launched direct online sales of its hardware products in India, allowing customers to purchase Pixel phones, watches, and earbuds directly from the Google Store website. This move marks the first time Google has enabled direct online purchases for Indian consumers, who previously had to buy these devices through authorized retailers or via the Walmart-backed e-commerce platform Flipkart.
The launch comes ahead of Google’s planned entry into physical retail in India, with the company reportedly finalizing locations for its first brick-and-mortar stores outside the United States. This strategy follows the retail model established by Apple, Google’s key competitor in the premium smartphone segment, which operates multiple retail stores in India, including flagship outlets in Mumbai and New Delhi.
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Google’s Pixel phones are priced competitively in the Indian market, ranging from approximately $360 to $1,900 for high-end models. Apple’s iPhones, by comparison, range from about $520 to $2,100. Google has also started local manufacturing of Pixel smartphones in India to strengthen its market position.
Despite these efforts, Apple currently dominates India’s premium smartphone market with a 55% share in 2024, while Google’s Pixel holds just around 2%, according to research from Counterpoint. India remains a highly significant market with approximately 712 million smartphone users, presenting substantial growth opportunities for both companies.
Google’s expansion into direct sales and upcoming physical stores highlights its commitment to strengthening its presence in the fast-growing Indian smartphone market and competing more aggressively against Apple’s well-established retail ecosystem.
