India-based EMS/ODM startup Indkal Technologies has signed a deal to design, manufacture, and sell smartphones under the Acer brand. Indkal plans to use an omnichannel strategy for its mid-to-high-end smartphones, targeting sales of INR3 billion (US$35.85 million).
Anand Dubey, founder and CEO of Indkal, told Hindu Business Line that the company plans to collaborate with various chip providers for products across INR15,000-50,000 price bands. It will also partner with Dixon Technologies to make products. In addition, Inkal will sell its smartphones across online and offline channels, including Flipkart and Amazon.
In mid-July, Indkal entered into a brand licensing agreement with Acer to produce and sell Acer smartphones in India, with the former handling the design, manufacturing, and distribution of Acer-branded smartphones. It is expected these smartphones will come to the market by the end of 2024.
Founded in 2018, Indkal, which engaged in electronics and component manufacturing, raised INR3 billion in a June funding round. The company plans to use the funds to develop products such as air conditioners, TVs, washing machines, and refrigerators. According to PTI, the company recorded sales of INR8 billion, manufacturing consumer electronics and large appliances for Acer and Beck-decker. In September 2013, the company decided to develop its audio devices with its brand.