[Asia Economy Reporter Joselgina] Google is accelerating its offensive against Samsung Electronics by unveiling the 'Pixel 6' series of smartphones, emphasizing cost-effectiveness. Industry observers suggest that if Google's software strengths, built up in the Android camp, are combined with competitive pricing, it could pose a threat to Samsung Electronics, which is also part of the Android ecosystem.
According to industry sources on the 19th, ahead of Google's 'PIXEL FALL LAUNCH' event, prices for the new smartphones 'Pixel 6' and 'Pixel 6 Pro' were leaked online.
The leaked prices from a Target sales price list in the U.S. show the Pixel 6 128GB at $599 and the Pixel 6 Pro 128GB at $898. M. Brandon Lee, who runs a tech-related YouTube channel, also posted a photo on his Twitter showing prices within Target's inventory system, confirming the leak by calling it a "crazy price."
These prices are much lower than previously estimated. Earlier, the Pixel 6 was expected to be priced between $749 and $850, and the Pixel 6 Pro between $1049 and $1099. This is $100 cheaper compared to its predecessor (Pixel 5). It is also lower than the Apple iPhone 13 mini ($699) and Samsung Electronics' Galaxy S21 ($799). The premium Pro model is also expected to be priced below $900, cheaper than the iPhone 13 Pro Max ($1099) and the S21 Ultra ($1199).
Major foreign media analyzed that Google is sacrificing margin to secure market share. Google is known to update four operating systems and provide security support for five years.
In particular, this move is expected to work disadvantageously for Samsung Electronics, which is part of the same Android camp. IT specialist media SamMobile reported, "The price of the Google Pixel 6 Pro could keep Samsung awake at night," adding, "Samsung will not be happy about the leaked Pixel 6 Pro price."
The media emphasized that the Pixel 6 series is the first to feature Google's Tensor SoC (System on Chip), developed over four years, and stated, "If combined with price competitiveness, it will be a problem for the Korean giant (Samsung Electronics). Google could eliminate Samsung's advantage in software support." Some speculate that Samsung Electronics might consider the Galaxy S21 Fan Edition (FE) card, which was previously delayed due to the semiconductor shortage, to compete on cost-effectiveness within the Android camp.
Meanwhile, Google is scheduled to hold a new product launch event at 2 a.m. Korean time on the 20th (10 a.m. local time on the 19th).
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