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Report: Google to tackle iPad, iPad Pro with Pixel C Android tablet

Another Pixel device may be coming from Google this week, only it's not likely a Chromebook. Instead, the Pixel C is expected to be a tablet with optional keyboard running Android 6.0.
Written by Kevin Tofel, Contributor

Google is expected to step up efforts highlighting Android tablet usage for productivity this week where, according to Android Police, the company will debut a new Pixel device.

Only this won't be a laptop, nor will it run Chrome OS like the Chromebook Pixel: Look for Google to debut the Pixel C Tablet with a pair of keyboard options. Earlier on Monday, Android Police also tipped Google to price its new Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P handsets at $379 and $499, respectively.

Previously, Google has introduced Nexus-branded tablets: The Nexus 7, Nexus 8 and Nexus 10, for example. So what might be different that earns the Pixel name?

My guess is the build quality and materials of the alleged 10.2-inch slate. I've previously purchased both the original Chromebook Pixel and its successor only to find a premium hardware experience. The new Pixel C is expected to share the same four-color lightbar and USB Type-C port for power and data transfers found on the latest Chromebook Pixel laptop.

Inside, an Nvidia X1 processor paired with 3 GB of memory will likely power the Pixel C. The 10.2-inch touchscreen display reportedly has a 308 pixel per inch density, a smidge more than the 300 ppi Nexus 10. That tablet, introduced in 2012, has a 10.1-inch screen with 2560 x 1600 resolution, so the Pixel C should have a slightly higher resolution.

The tablet will have a pair of keyboard accessories when it arrives in November, one covered in leather and one made from aluminum, reports Android Police.

If Google does introduce a Pixel C tablet with keyboard options at tomorrow's press event -- we'll be there, so check back in -- I expect the company to heavily discuss its Android for Work efforts.

While a Pixel tablet may appeal to some consumers, the Pixel brand suggests a premium price and the keyboard accessories hint at productivity.

I'm still strongly considering moving all of my productivity tasks to a mobile OS -- likely on an iPad Pro -- so I'm very interested in the story Google tells if it introduces a new high-end slate with keyboard option.

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