On May 29, Google announced its intention to open a store in India through which it will be selling its Pixel lineup directly along with other products, such as smartphones, watches, earbuds, and accessories, for the first time. The news was given by the current Managing Director of Devices and Services at Google India, Mitul Shah, this Thursday. This new initiative from Google will enhance their retail presence in online and offline markets, and consumers can have more choices. The 4-minute article was posted on the Google India blog notifying about the news of opening a new store, but there was no mention of any place in India where their new experience store gonna be.
Google said that with this new store, they would be offering a way for Indian consumers to explore Google's latest innovations, compare models, and make purchases everything at one place, right from Google, including most of their pixels products, their latest phones, watches, buds, and official accessories. Google has been looking to invest in this new store in various locations. Currently, Google has to rely on third-party retailers for their distribution of products, such as Reliance Digital, Croma, Flipkart, and Amazon in India, but with its launch, consumers can easily purchase directly from them online and offline mode.
It does not mean that Google will not gonna end their tie-ups and distributions from these retail stores, but their long-standing collaboration remains instrumental. Shah said, "We have continued to expand our physical and digital retail footprint with Pixel now available through 25+ large format retail and mobile wireless partners, including Croma, Reliance, Vijay Sales, Bajaj Electronics, Poorvika, Sangeetha, among others, alongside key multi-brand retail stores. We've deepened our commitment to growing hands-on buying experiences, with fixtures in over 200 stores and overall distribution now spanning more than 2000 stores across the country."
Launch Benefits
One of the key highlights is their "Pixel Price Promise," which Google has promised Indian consumers to receive competitive and attractive pricing. Google noted that "If you find a better price at a selected retail partner or on Google Store within the return period, you may be eligible for a partial refund to match the lower price." To make Pixel more easily accessible to the Indian people, they are working on strategic partners, including leading banks, and designing more financial choices for them. "To make it easier for people to access Pixel products, we've consistently established strategic partnerships with leading banks, offering a range of specifically designed financing options." Adding to that, "People can choose from various payment modes, including UPI, and find several options and discounts," said Shah.
- No Cost EMI and Offers: It has become easy for people to pay for Google purchases over time since Google brings no-cost EMI options by partnershipping with 15+ select banks, including HDFC Bank. Some reports say there are some great discount and offers.
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold — MRP: Rs 1,72,999 | Offer: Rs 1,62,999
- Pixel 9 Pro — MRP: Rs 1,09,999 | Offer: Rs 99,999
- Pixel 9 — MRP: Rs 79,999 | Offer: Rs 74,999
- Pixel 8a — MRP: Rs 49,999 | Offer: Rs 34,999
- Instant cashback: Instant cashback will be gonna available when you pay via EMI using a credit card. This option would start with select HDFC Bank credit cards, and later, more banks may be added.
- Exchange bonus: For the consumer they are now taking advantage of old smartphones by exchanging them for new Google phones with a special exchange bonus. Pixel users can enjoy additional offers or discounts when upgrading their devices.
- Store credits: Every time they purchase from the store, they are given a store credit that can be accumulated and later used to pay for future Google Store shopping.
Customer experience and support
It is important for any mobile company that its consumers receive an unmatched customer support experience when they encounter issues. Google Pixel series have been loved by Indian consumer, especially their Pixel 8 and 9 series. "To support our growing Pixel community, ensuring robust customer support is a critical priority." Shah said. He also added "Across several service centres that offer post-purchase support, we have expanded our same day repair capabilities with 20 service centres in India, including our three existing Google Exclusive Service Centres."
Google is continuously taking the best of AI technologies, such as its Gemini, and making the Pixel experience instinctive for discerning consumers of the Indian Market. "The launch of direct online purchases on the Google Store is a pivotal step in our mission to empower more Indians with our AI-powered Pixel devices. By providing direct access, flexible financing, and a seamless experience, we are not just selling hardware; we are delivering intelligent, helpful tools designed to unlock creativity, boost productivity, and keep users connected. This step furthers our commitment to India and our excitement for its digital future," Mitul Shah stated.