When it comes to tablets, Apple’s iPads tend to dominate the conversation. However, Google has been quietly working on its own tablets for years, offering a unique Android-based alternative to the iPad. But do Google make tablets? The answer is yes, and in this article, we’ll delve into the history of Google’s tablet efforts, exploring the highs and lows, and what the future might hold.
Early Beginnings: The Nexus 7 and the Rise of Android Tablets
Google’s foray into the tablet market began in 2012 with the launch of the Nexus 7, a 7-inch Android tablet developed in collaboration with Asus. The Nexus 7 was a game-changer, offering a powerful and affordable Android tablet experience that quickly gained popularity. The device’s success can be attributed to its sleek design, impressive performance, and aggressive pricing, which made it an attractive option for those looking for a budget-friendly tablet.
The Nexus 7’s success paved the way for other Android tablet manufacturers, and soon the market was flooded with a variety of options. However, Google’s early lead in the tablet space was short-lived, as Apple’s iPads continued to dominate the market.
The Nexus 9 and the Shift to Premium Tablets
In 2014, Google launched the Nexus 9, a 9-inch tablet developed in partnership with HTC. The Nexus 9 marked a significant shift in Google’s tablet strategy, moving away from budget-friendly options and towards premium devices. The tablet’s sleek design, impressive performance, and high-resolution display made it a compelling option for those seeking a high-end Android tablet experience.
However, the Nexus 9 failed to gain significant traction in the market, largely due to its high price point and limited availability. Despite this, the Nexus 9 set the stage for Google’s future tablet efforts, which would focus on delivering premium devices with a unique blend of hardware and software.
Pixel C: The Android Tablet That Could Have Been
In 2015, Google launched the Pixel C, a 10.2-inch Android tablet developed in-house. The Pixel C was a unique device, offering a convertible design that allowed users to switch between tablet and laptop modes. The device’s impressive performance, stunning display, and sleek design made it an attractive option for those seeking a premium Android tablet experience.
However, the Pixel C was not without its flaws. The device’s Android operating system, while feature-rich, was not optimized for the tablet form factor, leading to a subpar user experience. Additionally, the Pixel C’s high price point and limited availability made it a niche product, appealing only to a select few.
Despite its limitations, the Pixel C remains an important milestone in Google’s tablet journey, showcasing the company’s ability to deliver innovative and premium devices.
Google’s Tablet Hiatus and the Rise of Chrome OS
Following the Pixel C’s release, Google seemingly abandoned the tablet market, shifting its focus towards Chrome OS and the Pixelbook laptop. The decision to halt tablet development was likely influenced by several factors, including the decline of the Android tablet market and the rise of Chrome OS as a viable alternative.
Chrome OS, initially designed for Chromebooks, has evolved to become a robust operating system capable of powering a wide range of devices, including tablets. Google’s decision to focus on Chrome OS has led to the development of innovative devices like the Pixel Slate, which offers a unique blend of tablet and laptop functionality.
The Pixel Slate: A Premium Chrome OS Tablet
Launched in 2018, the Pixel Slate is Google’s latest attempt at creating a premium tablet experience. The device features a stunning 12.3-inch display, impressive performance, and a sleek design that sets it apart from other Chrome OS devices.
The Pixel Slate’s Chrome OS operating system offers a unique blend of desktop and mobile functionality, making it an attractive option for those seeking a device that can handle both work and play. The device’s compatibility with Android apps, courtesy of the Google Play Store, adds to its appeal, providing users with a vast library of applications to choose from.
However, the Pixel Slate’s high price point and limited availability have limited its appeal, making it a niche product for those seeking a premium Chrome OS experience.
What Makes the Pixel Slate Unique?
Several features set the Pixel Slate apart from other Chrome OS devices:
- Detachable Keyboard: The Pixel Slate’s detachable keyboard, while sold separately, offers a laptop-like experience, making it an attractive option for those seeking a 2-in-1 device.
- Stylus Support: The Pixel Slate’s stylus support, courtesy of the Google Pixelbook Pen, makes it an attractive option for artists, designers, and note-takers.
- Android App Compatibility: The Pixel Slate’s ability to run Android apps, courtesy of the Google Play Store, expands its functionality, making it a more appealing option for users.
What’s Next for Google’s Tablet Efforts?
As Google continues to refine its Chrome OS operating system, it’s likely that we’ll see more innovative tablets and 2-in-1 devices in the future. The company’s focus on premium devices and unique features, like stylus support and detachable keyboards, sets it apart from other manufacturers.
Google’s tablet efforts, while not always successful, demonstrate the company’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to take risks. As the technology landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Google adapts and what new tablet innovations the company has in store.
Conclusion:
Do Google make tablets? The answer is yes, and while their tablet efforts may not have always been successful, they demonstrate the company’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to take risks. From the Nexus 7 to the Pixel Slate, Google has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a tablet can be, offering unique features and premium devices that appeal to a wide range of users. As the technology landscape continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see what new tablet innovations Google has in store.
What was the first Google tablet released?
The first Google tablet released was the Motorola Xoom, which came out in 2011. This tablet ran on Android 3.0, also known as Honeycomb, which was specifically designed for tablets. Although it didn’t gain much traction due to its high price point and limited availability of apps, it marked the beginning of Google’s journey in the tablet market.
The Motorola Xoom was a powerful device with a 10.1-inch display, dual-core processor, and 32GB of internal storage. It also came with a 5-megapixel rear camera and a 2-megapixel front camera. Although it was initially released with a high price tag, the price eventually dropped, making it more competitive in the market.
What sets Google tablets apart from other Android tablets?
Google tablets are set apart from other Android tablets due to their close integration with Google services and exclusive features. One of the key differences is the timely updates to the latest Android versions, which are usually rolled out directly by Google. This means that Google tablets receive the latest security patches and features before other Android tablets.
Another advantage of Google tablets is the seamless integration with Google services such as Google Drive, Google Photos, and Google Play. This integration provides a smooth user experience and allows users to access their content across different devices. Additionally, Google tablets often come with exclusive features such as Google Assistant, which provides a more personalized experience.
What is the Nexus program, and how did it impact Google tablets?
The Nexus program was a series of Android devices developed by Google in collaboration with various manufacturers. The program aimed to provide a pure Android experience without any bloatware or customizations from manufacturers. This approach allowed Google to showcase its vision for Android and provided a reference device for developers.
The Nexus program had a significant impact on Google tablets, as it led to the development of high-quality devices such as the Nexus 7 and Nexus 10. These tablets were praised for their performance, design, and affordability, which helped to establish Google as a major player in the tablet market. The Nexus program also influenced the development of subsequent Google tablets, which adopted a similar approach to software and hardware design.
What is the significance of the Pixel Slate?
The Pixel Slate, released in 2018, marks a significant milestone in Google’s tablet journey. It is the first Chrome OS-based tablet designed by Google, which represents a shift in focus from Android to Chrome OS for tablets. The Pixel Slate is designed to provide a more desktop-like experience, with a larger display and keyboard attachment.
The Pixel Slate is significant because it showcases Google’s vision for a converged device that can seamlessly switch between tablet and laptop modes. It also highlights Google’s efforts to improve the Chrome OS platform, which is becoming increasingly popular in the education and enterprise sectors.
Why did Google discontinue its Android tablet lineup?
Google discontinued its Android tablet lineup in 2019, citing a decline in demand and a shift in focus towards Chrome OS devices. The decision was likely influenced by the decline of the tablet market as a whole, as well as the increasing popularity of larger smartphones.
The discontinuation of Android tablets also reflects Google’s strategy to focus on Chrome OS, which is seen as a more promising platform for the future. By concentrating on Chrome OS, Google can provide a more streamlined and cohesive experience across its devices, including laptops, desktops, and tablets.
What is the future of Google tablets?
The future of Google tablets looks promising, with a focus on Chrome OS devices. Google is likely to continue developing high-quality Chrome OS tablets that provide a seamless and intuitive experience. With the success of the Pixelbook and Pixel Slate, Google has demonstrated its ability to create devices that appeal to a wide range of users.
Google may also explore new form factors and features, such as foldable displays, 5G connectivity, and improved battery life. As the tablet market continues to evolve, Google is well-positioned to adapt and innovate, providing users with devices that meet their changing needs and preferences.
Will Google ever revive its Android tablet lineup?
While it’s possible that Google may revive its Android tablet lineup in the future, there are no indications of this happening anytime soon. Google has made it clear that its focus is on Chrome OS devices, and it’s unlikely to revisit Android tablets unless there’s a significant shift in market demand or technology.
However, Google may consider reviving Android tablets if there’s a compelling reason to do so, such as a major breakthrough in Android tablet technology or a significant change in user behavior. For now, users who prefer Android tablets can still purchase devices from other manufacturers, while those who prefer Chrome OS have a range of options from Google and other brands.