In Tokyo, Google has opened its first directly operated store outside the US, a concept that brings together product sales, hands-on experiences and customer service.

The Google Store Omotesando opened on August 13 at Tokyu Plaza Omotesando ‘Omokado’. Google says it is the company’s 11th store globally and its largest.

The three-storey location showcases Google’s latest hardware, including the Pixel 11 series smartphone, Pixel Watch, Fitbit wearables, Google Home devices and accessories.

The store is designed to go beyond traditional product retail, giving customers opportunities to interact with Google’s technology and AI capabilities.

Its second floor houses Pixel Studio, an interactive space where visitors can explore a range of AI-powered experiences.  The store also features Project Genie, a research prototype that can generate 3D virtual worlds from text prompts.

The store also serves as a collection point for Google Store purchases made online.

The opening marks the 25th anniversary of Google’s operations in Japan. The company established its first overseas office in Tokyo in 2001.

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