Google Pixel smartphone pre-order begins; India among 1st six countries to get it

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: Google's much-awaited Pixel -- a new premium device completely designed by the tech giant with Google Assistant built right-in is available for pre-order in India from Thursday onwards.

With an aim to lead the world of smartphones with its artificial intelligence (AI)-based technology, Google had launched Pixel early this month.

India is among the first six countries where Pixel is being launched. Starting at Rs, 57,000, it will be available for pre-order in India on e-tailer website Flipkart and at over 1,000 plus multi-brand retail stores, including Reliance Digital, Croma and Vijay sales, among others.

Flipkart has tweeted:

Meet Pixel, a phone by Google. Pre-orders begin tonight at 00:01 HRS, 13th October. #MadeByGoogle #OnlyOnFlipkart https://t.co/Hv4JNUt4aV — Flipkart (@Flipkart) October 12, 2016

The launch also ended the Nexus branding under which the company has always released phones in partnership with other original equipment manufacturers like LG (for Google Nexus 5) and Huawei (for Google Nexus 6P).

Pixel is first smartphone with Google Assistant -- a built-in AI programme that works as an intelligent personal assistant and knowledge navigator.

With the Google Assistant, users can have a natural conversation with Google to find answers or get things done on the go. Say "Ok Google" or touch and hold the Home button and the Assistant is ready to help.