The Google Pixel Tablet’s future remains uncertain, with leaks suggesting a successor was cancelled. However, reports indicate the Pixel Tablet 2 reached advanced development stages with significant upgrades before being scrapped. This article explores the potential of the lost Pixel Tablet 2 and its planned improvements.
Internal documents, as reported by Android Authority, reveal the second-generation Pixel Tablet would have featured the Tensor G4 chip, the same processor powering the Google Pixel 9 series. A cellular version with a Samsung Exynos 5G modem was also reportedly considered.
A key upgrade was planned for the display. The Pixel Tablet 2 was slated to receive a 120Hz refresh rate screen with increased peak brightness. This would have been a significant improvement over the current generation’s 60Hz LCD, which MaagX’s review described as “slow and choppy,” particularly noticeable in menus and animations.
The first-generation Pixel Tablet suffered from software bugs, underwhelming battery life, and a less-than-ideal design. These issues, combined with the subpar display, contributed to its lukewarm reception.
YouTube TV Android app on the Google Pixel Tablet.Google Pixel Tablet running YouTube TV (Image: Joe Maring/MaagX)
Google also planned camera upgrades for the Pixel Tablet 2. The front camera was reportedly bumped to 10 megapixels from 8, while the rear camera would have seen an upgrade from 8 megapixels to 11. Furthermore, DisplayPort output up to 4K and an updated accessory lineup, including a keyboard case, were also in the works.
The battery capacity was also set to increase slightly, from 6,900mAh to 7,200mAh. While not a substantial jump, any improvement in battery performance would have been welcomed, considering the first-generation tablet’s battery woes.
A person holding the Google Pixel Tablet.Google Pixel Tablet held in hand (Image: Andy Boxall/MaagX)
Despite cancelling the Pixel Tablet 2, Google hasn’t abandoned its tablet ambitions. A Pixel Tablet 3 is reportedly in development, with a potentially enhanced version targeting a 2026 release. However, Google’s history of inconsistent commitment to product lines raises concerns. The Pixel Tablet exemplifies this, even as Google invests heavily in foldable phones like the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
While Android has made strides in foldable-optimized software, it still lags behind in the tablet space. Interestingly, Google’s solution appears to be merging Chrome OS into Android to better compete with Apple’s iPad ecosystem. This move could potentially streamline Google’s efforts, addressing the shortcomings of both operating systems and creating a unified platform for larger-screen devices.
Whether this strategy will revive Google’s tablet aspirations remains to be seen. Only time will tell if a unified Android-Chrome OS can provide a compelling tablet experience and propel the Pixel Tablet to success.