Google Set to Open First Retail Stores in India, Expanding Global Presence

New Delhi : Google is on the verge of finalizing locations for its first-ever retail stores in India, marking a significant step in its global expansion strategy. The technology giant is reportedly considering prime locations in or around New Delhi and Mumbai, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Strategic Expansion into India’s Retail Market

India, a key market for Google, has seen increasing demand for its hardware products, including Pixel smartphones, smartwatches, and earbuds. While Google has operated through authorized resellers and online platforms, the company is now set to establish a direct retail presence, mirroring Apple’s successful strategy of showcasing its premium products through exclusive stores.

Google currently operates only five retail stores, all in the United States. Expanding into India highlights the company’s growing focus on tapping into the country’s booming smartphone market, which is home to over 700 million users.

Retail Plans and Store Locations

According to industry insiders, Google is in advanced discussions to secure locations for the new stores, with Gurugram—one of Delhi’s major business hubs—emerging as a strong contender. The company is also eyeing Mumbai, India’s financial capital, to strengthen its reach among urban consumers.

The proposed stores are expected to span approximately 15,000 square feet and could take at least six months to launch, though timelines may shift based on regulatory clearances and operational requirements.

Competition with Apple in India’s Premium Market

Google’s move into the Indian retail sector comes nearly two years after Apple opened its flagship stores in Mumbai and Delhi. While Apple has a dominant presence in India’s premium smartphone market, Google aims to challenge its competitor by offering an immersive retail experience, showcasing its Pixel lineup and other hardware products.

Pixel smartphones in India are priced between $370 and $2,000, making them direct competitors to Apple’s iPhones, which range from $520 to $2,130. Google has also ramped up efforts to manufacture Pixel devices in India, aligning with the country’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Regulatory and Business Challenges

Despite its ambitious retail plans, Google faces several regulatory hurdles in India. The company is currently dealing with antitrust cases related to its in-app billing policies and alleged monopolistic practices in the smart TV market. Additionally, Google’s India head of public policy recently stepped down, marking the second high-profile exit in two years, raising concerns about its regulatory approach in the country.

What’s Next?

With its retail strategy taking shape, Google is set to make a bold move into India’s premium technology market. If the initial store openings prove successful, the company is likely to expand its retail footprint further across the country. Industry analysts view this as a pivotal step in Google’s bid to strengthen its hardware business and compete with global tech giants in one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.