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.
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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.