Google Pixel Tablet debuts, brings a tablet and a Nest Hub in one

Photo: Google

Google has finally launched the Pixel Tablet, a hybrid device that works as a smart display and a detachable tablet. It was first teased at I/O last year, but now it is available for pre-order at a starting price of CAD 699, including the speaker base. In the US, you can also buy extra docks for USD 120 (around CAD 163) each to place them in different rooms. (This option isn't showing up on the Google Canada store.)

The Pixel Tablet is not a typical tablet nor a successor to the Pixel Slate. It is more like a Nest Hub Max with an 11-inch screen that you can take off the base. Google said it was inspired by porcelain to create a nano-ceramic coating that gives the device a textured feel. It comes in three colours: Hazel (grey), Porcelain (white), or Rose (US only). The first one has black bezels, while the others have white ones.

The tablet runs on Android 13 and has some multitasking features for larger screens. Google has made 50 of its apps work better on the Pixel Tablet and partnered with other app developers to optimize their apps (like Spotify, Minecraft, and Disney+). For example, Gmail and WhatsApp have two-column layouts. You can also make video calls from WhatsApp on the Pixel Tablet, a first for a tablet. Dragging and dropping photos between apps in split-screen mode is also available.

The Pixel Tablet uses Google’s Tensor G2 processor, which supports AI features like voice typing, Magic Eraser, and Photo Unblur. You can use these features on the screen, whether docked or not.

Photo: Google

When the screen is attached to the base, it becomes a smart display. The dock’s speakers take over the sound, and you can see your photos on the lock screen. You can also tap a home button to control your smart home devices, such as lights, thermostats, locks and cameras.

Anyone who touches the Pixel Tablet can use this home button to do tasks like set timers, play music, and ask Google questions. But unregistered users, like guests, can’t access your personal info (like your calendar). You must unlock the tablet with the fingerprint sensor on the power button for that access.

The Pixel Tablet can also act as an extra screen. This is the first tablet with Chromecast built-in, but it only works in Hub Mode. It is also good for video conferences. The tablet has two 8-megapixel cameras on the front and back. Google Meet can keep you in the centre of the frame even if you move.

The tablet battery can last up to 12 hours of video streaming, making it possible to binge-watch your favourite shows if you take it on a long flight.

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