Former Apple India executive Mitul Shah has joined Google as the managing director for its devices and services business in the country, as the alphabet-owned tech giant pushes hard to boost its footprint in India's premium smartphone market.

He will now lead the sales and expansion of Google’s Pixel smartphones in the country.

Taking to LinkedIn, Shah said, “I am happy to share that I have started an exciting new journey with Google as managing director for devices and services business – leading Pixel’s sales and expansion efforts in India.” 

“It is an honor to be part of a company that’s at the forefront of innovation, and I am particularly thrilled to be working on a product that has the potential to put the magic and power of artificial intelligence (AI) in the pockets of millions of people across my beloved country”, he added.

“Pixel is not just another device. It’s the platform designed to put the immense power and possibilities of AI in everyone’s pocket. It is an absolute privilege to be part of this story, to bring the best of Google to Indian consumers and build a more connected and empowered society”, Shah further said.

Shah also worked with multinational companies including Accenture and Infosys Technologies. He holds an experience of 22 years in tech and retail sectors.

In August, Google kicked off production of its flagship Pixel 8 smartphone in India. Back then, the company said its move to initiate smartphone production in India would enable it to bring a better ‘experience’ to people across the country. 

Moreover, the tech giant inked a pact with the Tamil Nadu government to explore manufacturing of its ‘Made in India’ Pixel 8 smartphones, skill development, and build an industrial ecosystem, allowing MSMEs to create scalable AI solutions, in early September.