Google to Open Retail Stores in India

Google is set to open its first-ever physical retail stores outside the United States, with locations expected in New Delhi and Mumbai.

The move aims to strengthen Google’s position in India’s premium smartphone market, where it competes with Apple.

India is a key growth market for Alphabet Inc.’s Google, with the company committing $10 billion in investments.

Until now, Google has operated only five retail stores, all in the US. These stores showcase Pixel smartphones, watches, earbuds, and other hardware products.

Google is taking direct aim at Apple, which has leveraged its global retail presence to drive sales.

Apple has over 500 stores worldwide and launched its first company-run outlets in Mumbai and New Delhi in 2024.

Sources say Google is in advanced talks to open stores in New Delhi and Mumbai.

The outlets are expected to span around 15,000 square feet and open in at least six months, though timelines could change. Bengaluru was considered but is not a priority at this stage.

A third source revealed Google is also exploring Gurugram, near New Delhi. The area houses global corporations such as Uber and Meta, alongside premium retail brands like Uniqlo.

The source said: “The idea is to compete with Apple… especially to target the luxury segment.”

If the initial stores perform well, Google is likely to expand further across India.

The company has already started manufacturing Pixel devices in India, aligning with the country’s “Make in India” initiative to lower costs and import duties.

Despite these efforts, Google’s presence in India’s premium smartphone market remains small.

According to Counterpoint Research, its Pixel phones hold just a 2% share of the segment for devices priced above $520, while Apple dominates with 55%.

Apple has maintained a branding advantage in India, boosted by CEO Tim Cook’s 2023 visit to launch its flagship stores.

Google’s expansion, while promising, still faces regulatory and legal hurdles. The company is dealing with antitrust cases related to its in-app billing system and dominance in the smart TV market.

Additionally, Google has seen key leadership exits. Its India head of public policy resigned in February 2025, marking the second high-profile departure from the role in two years.

A source confirmed Google’s retail expansion is a firm decision but noted that regulatory and compliance approvals must be cleared before the stores can launch.