Has Google Given Up on Tablets? The Pixel Tablet’s Future and What’s Next

The Pixel Tablet was one of Google’s most intriguing releases in recent years — a hybrid between a tablet and a smart home hub. But despite its promise, it struggled to capture the attention Google likely hoped for. Priced at $499 with modest specs, including a 60Hz display and the somewhat outdated Tensor G2 chip, it left many wondering if it was simply an overpriced Nest Hub alternative.

To make matters more uncertain, reports surfaced in late 2024 that the Pixel Tablet 2 had been canceled. Even more surprising were rumors suggesting we may not see a follow-up until 2027 — a five-year gap. This raises the question: Has Google given up on tablets?

A Rocky History with Google Tablets

Google’s tablet journey has been anything but smooth. The Nexus 7 (2012) was a fan favorite, offering impressive specs at an affordable price. But the Nexus 9 (2014) received mixed reviews for its build quality and pricing. The Pixel C (2015) brought premium hardware but was let down by software, while the Pixel Slate (2018) impressed with hardware but again stumbled on the software side — and at a steep price.

After that, Google exited the tablet scene — until the Pixel Tablet arrived in 2023. Unfortunately, many of the same old problems resurfaced: high price, underwhelming specs, and most critically, a fuzzy product identity. Was it a tablet? A Nest Hub replacement? It tried to be both, but didn’t fully deliver on either.

Why the Pixel Tablet 2 Was Canceled

Reports indicated that profitability concerns led to the Pixel Tablet 2’s cancellation. But it goes deeper than that. Google is in the middle of a major shift, centering its product strategy around AI — particularly its Gemini AI platform. Gemini is set to replace Google Assistant across devices, and Google is working to integrate it into every corner of its ecosystem, from Android to YouTube.

Right now, the Pixel Tablet runs Google Assistant in hub mode and Gemini in tablet mode. This split experience likely contributed to the decision to hold back on new hardware. Google seems determined to refine its software and Gemini integration before launching a successor.

What Could Have Been: Pixel Tablet 2 Features

Leaked details suggested the Pixel Tablet 2 would have leaned into productivity, with a 120Hz display, larger battery, DisplayPort output, and better external monitor support — possibly even a new keyboard cover. These upgrades, paired with Android 16’s upcoming desktop windowing and enhanced input support, could have made the tablet feel more like a laptop. But that also would have made its market position even trickier to explain to consumers.

Looking Ahead: The Gemini Era and Beyond

While the Pixel Tablet 2 is canceled, the first-gen Pixel Tablet will continue to receive software updates until June 2026 and security updates until June 2028 — though Google may extend that given the canceled sequel.

Meanwhile, big changes are brewing in the Android world. Android 16 is expected to deliver better app windowing, keyboard and stylus support, and external display compatibility — features long overdue for tablets. On an even bigger scale, Google is working to merge ChromeOS into Android, potentially creating a unified platform that can compete more seriously with iPadOS. If they pull it off, future Android tablets could become far more powerful and versatile.

Of course, Gemini integration remains the big unknown. How Google weaves Gemini into this ChromeOS-Android hybrid will likely shape the next generation of Pixel tablets, possibly arriving in 2027 or beyond. Rumors even suggest the Pixel Tablet 3 might feature dual USB ports, signaling a shift toward serious productivity.

So, Has Google Given Up?

The short answer: No — but they’re hitting pause. Rather than abandoning tablets, Google seems to be stepping back to rethink its approach. With a complicated tablet history behind them and a company-wide AI transformation underway, it’s not surprising they’re holding off on new hardware until their software strategy is fully in place.

While it’s frustrating for Pixel Tablet fans, this pause might actually be good news. If Google gets Gemini and Android’s large-screen experience right, the next Pixel Tablet could finally live up to its promise.

Final Thoughts

So, what do you think? Is Google smart to take a step back and regroup, or are they once again dropping the ball in the tablet market? Are you hopeful for the Pixel Tablet’s future, or are you skeptical that they’ll get it right?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments!