Google’s Pixel Tablet 2 was shaping up to be a device with some significant improvements over its predecessor, but it seems the project has been abandoned. Details from Android Authority have revealed what might have been in store for the second iteration of Google’s tablet, including a better display, 5G connectivity, camera upgrades, and more. However, despite these exciting upgrades, it now looks like the Pixel Tablet 2 will never make it to market.
A Display Upgrade
One of the key improvements that the Pixel Tablet 2 would have brought was its display. While the original Pixel Tablet featured a standard 60Hz refresh rate, the second-generation model was rumored to come with a more advanced 120Hz refresh rate. This would have made the device much smoother and more responsive, particularly when scrolling, gaming, or using apps that benefit from a higher refresh rate. The display size would have remained at 10.95 inches, which was the same as the original tablet, but the increased refresh rate would have drastically improved the viewing experience. The resolution was expected to stay at 2,560 x 1,600 pixels, which means the sharpness and clarity of the display would have been the same, but the increased refresh rate would have added a noticeable improvement in overall fluidity.
Camera Improvements
Another area where the Pixel Tablet 2 would have outshined its predecessor was in the camera department. The original Pixel Tablet didn’t focus much on its cameras, but Google planned to bring significant upgrades to the Pixel Tablet 2. It would have featured the same 10MP front-facing camera found in the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, offering better quality for video calls and selfies. On the back, the Pixel Tablet 2 would have been equipped with an upgraded 11MP rear camera, improving the device’s overall photography capabilities. While tablets aren’t typically known for their impressive cameras, the improvements would have made the Pixel Tablet 2 much more versatile for users who want to take decent photos or videos with their device.
5G Connectivity
The Pixel Tablet 2 was also expected to offer 5G connectivity, making it a more modern and capable device for on-the-go internet access. Google was planning to use the 5G modem from its Pixel 9 series for the tablet, which would have brought faster data speeds to the device. However, it’s worth noting that the cellular models of the Pixel Tablet 2 would have included GPS but not satellite connectivity, which may have limited its use in certain situations, especially for those relying on more precise navigation capabilities.
Smart Home Hub Features
One of the more intriguing rumors surrounding the Pixel Tablet 2 was its potential to become a smart home hub. Google has already integrated smart home functionality into its devices like the Google Nest Hub, and the Pixel Tablet 2 was set to continue that trend. The device was reportedly going to include a Thread radio, a low-power, low-latency wireless protocol that supports smart home devices. Thread is already present in the Pixel 9 phones, but it hasn’t been widely adopted or fully utilized in Google’s ecosystem yet. With the Pixel Tablet 2, Google seemed to be betting on expanding its smart home offerings and potentially allowing the tablet to interact with other smart devices in a home, making it a more central piece of a smart home setup.
External Display Support
Additionally, the Pixel Tablet 2 would have had support for external displays, including the possibility of outputting up to 4K resolution. This would have made the tablet much more versatile, turning it into a device that could be used for work or entertainment when connected to larger displays. While this feature might not have been groundbreaking, it would have made the tablet a more viable option for users looking for a portable device that could easily transition into a desktop-like experience when needed.
Competition with the iPad
With these improvements, the Pixel Tablet 2 could have become a much more competitive device in the tablet market, particularly when compared to Apple’s iPad lineup. The iPad has long been the leader in the tablet category, thanks to its premium build quality, excellent display, and strong ecosystem of apps. By introducing features like 5G connectivity, an improved display, and smart home hub integration, the Pixel Tablet 2 would have offered an interesting alternative for Android users. However, despite the potential improvements, it seems that Google ultimately decided to abandon the project.
The Pixel Tablet’s Future
The cancellation of the Pixel Tablet 2 marks a setback for Google in its tablet ambitions. The original Pixel Tablet, launched in 2023, was a hybrid device meant to blend the functionality of an Android tablet with the features of a smart display, offering users a unique experience. However, while the Pixel Tablet did receive positive feedback for its design and functionality, it didn’t quite take off in the way Google might have hoped. Despite its potential, Google appears to be stepping back from the tablet market once again, with the Pixel Tablet 2 never seeing the light of day.
In conclusion, while the Pixel Tablet 2 had some promising features that could have made it a more competitive option in the tablet space, the cancellation of the device highlights the challenges Google faces in maintaining a consistent presence in the tablet market. With a focus on its other hardware and software initiatives, it seems that Google may not be fully committed to pushing forward with tablets at this time, leaving the future of Android-based tablets uncertain for now.