Google is reportedly thinking about opening physical retail stores in India to boost the sales of its Pixel smartphones in this crucial smartphone market. India is one of the fastest-growing smartphone markets in the world and estimates from market analysts suggest that Google’s flagship handsets are lagging behind the competition in India. Google is thus believed to be opening physical stores in the country so that it can boost the sales of its Pixel smartphones.
A local news report claims that Google has hired a former senior Apple executive to lead its retail charge in India. One source expects that Google’s physical stores may open their doors in the second half of next year.
Google has reportedly been encouraged by the response that it saw at the dozen or so pop-up stores that it launched in malls across India recently. It showcased the Pixel 2 handsets at these pop-up stores and also educated customers about the features that they offer.
It’s also believed that Google will sell some of its other products at these stores, such as its Google Home smart speakers, Chromecast devices, Pixel notebooks, and Daydream virtual reality headsets. It would make sense for the company to do so.
At least two prominent malls in the country have said that they have received requests for space where Google’s stores will be set up. The company hasn’t confirmed this, though, only saying that it doesn’t comment on rumors and speculation.
Filed in . Read more about Google and Google Pixel 2. Source: economictimes.indiatimes