(Reuters) – Google GOOGL.O will start developing and manufacturing high-end smartphones in Vietnam this year, Nikkei Asia reported on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
Google already has a large network of suppliers in Vietnam that assemble its products, including Pixel smartphones.
Google will begin new product introductions (NPI) for its Pixel, Pixel Pro, and Pixel Fold phones in Vietnam, with development of the lower-end Pixel A series remaining in China for now, the report said.
NPI is a critical phase in launching a new electronics device, involving process development, verification, and refinement, the report added.
Google already mass-produces high-end smartphones in Vietnam and conducts some verification there, so building new phones from scratch in the country should be achievable, the report said.
Reuters could not immediately verify the report. Google did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
(Reporting by Ananya Palyekar in Bengaluru; Editing by Rashmi Aich)
