Google has made good on its promise to enhance its presence in India by confirming the launch of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, its first ever foldable device in India. This announcement follows the unveiling of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9 Pro and a series of leaks that have kept tech enthusiasts buzzing.
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold was revealed through a brief, Gemini-linked teaser video, showcasing its double-stacked rear camera lenses, an outside screen, and a hinge. It joins a lineup of highly anticipated devices, including the Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro XL. Google has planned an event at its headquarters in California on August 13 to provide more details about these new offerings. In India, the devices will be unveiled on August 14. The Pixel 9 Pro has also been confirmed.
Leaked hands-on videos and regulatory filings have already revealed much about the Pixel 9 series. These leaks have generated significant interest, and the official event is expected to clarify remaining details about the devices.
Google’s big India push falls in line with a significant commitment it made at the Google for India event last year. The company announced that it would manufacture Pixel smartphones in the country starting this year. This strategic move is intended to meet local demand more efficiently and support the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative. The first India-made Pixel phones are expected to hit the market—in 2024—starting with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, followed by the mid-range Pixel A-series.
Rick Osterloh, Google’s head of devices and services, had emphasised the importance of this step, stating, “It’s an early step towards expanding our production here to meet the local demand for Pixel devices. And even more importantly, it’s a huge step forward in Google’s commitment to Make in India.” He reiterated that India is a priority market for Pixel phones and that the company is eager to bring more of its innovative devices to the region.
“We can’t wait to bring more pixel magic to India,” he had said.
As the August 13 event approaches, anticipation is building for the official unveiling of the Pixel 9 series. With its enhanced focus on the Indian market and the introduction of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google is set to make a significant impact in the competitive smartphone landscape, provided it gets the pricing right. The combination of advanced technology, local manufacturing, and strategic market positioning highlights Google’s commitment to expanding its footprint in India. Whether or not the Pixel 9 series will be added to the list, remains to be seen.
