A Google Pixel laptop might be on its way, but does anyone actually want one?

A new addition to the Pixel family seems to be on the horizon, with Google possibly gearing up to launch a new Pixel laptop. This speculation comes from code analysis of the latest Android beta, hinting at a potential new laptop from Google. The last laptop Google released was the Pixelbook Go in 2019, a more budget-friendly version of the Pixelbook from 2017.

Google’s previous attempts at laptops, including the Chromebook Pixel models, did not achieve significant success in the market. This led Google to shift its focus away from laptops and towards Pixel smartphones.

The tides are shifting, and it seems ChromeOS is on its sunset ride.

Rumors suggest that Google might be working on a new laptop that runs on Aluminium OS instead of Chromebook foundations. However, the timing for a new Google Pixel laptop may not be ideal, given several factors working against it.

Google’s History of Laptop Failures

Google has had a mixed track record with laptops over the past decade, with models like the Chromebook Pixel, Pixelbook, and Pixelbook Go failing to make a significant impact in the market.

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DailyTech

One of the main reasons for their lack of success was their high pricing and the limitations of the ChromeOS operating system.

A History of High Pricing at Google

Device model Price starting at
Chromebook Pixel (2013) $1,299
Chromebook Pixel (2015) $999
Pixelbook $999
Pixelbook Go $649

All Google laptops were priced around $1,000 or higher, making them less appealing compared to Windows laptops or MacBooks at similar price points.

While the Pixelbook Go received positive reviews for its design and battery life, the software limitations of ChromeOS hindered its overall performance.

As a result, Google laptops struggled to compete in the market, especially given the advancements in hardware and software from other manufacturers.

The State of ChromeOS in 2026

Despite some updates, ChromeOS still lags behind other operating systems in terms of features and app support. Linux, in contrast, has made significant strides in supporting popular apps and gaming, making it a more attractive option for users.

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ChromeOS lacks the robust app support and functionality of other operating systems like Linux, making it less appealing to users who require a more versatile platform.

Introducing Aluminium OS

Google is working on a new operating system called Aluminium OS, expected to launch in 2026. This OS aims to combine Android and ChromeOS into a unified platform, offering better app support and features.

Aluminium OS promises to natively support all Play Store apps with enhanced desktop features, including window management and multitasking capabilities.

One of the key features of Aluminium OS is Gemini AI, which is integrated into the core of the OS to provide advanced AI capabilities. While Aluminium OS shows promise, it may face challenges similar to ChromeOS in terms of app compatibility and performance.

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Rachit Agarwal / DailyTech

While Aluminium OS shows promise, it may face challenges similar to ChromeOS in terms of app compatibility and performance. The success of Aluminium OS will depend on its ability to address these issues effectively.

Rising RAM and SSD Prices

The current market conditions, with increasing prices of RAM and SSDs, present a challenge for new hardware launches. The rising costs of components have led to higher prices for electronics across the board.

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Sergei Starostin / Pexels

The increasing costs of components like RAM and SSDs have led to higher prices for electronics, impacting consumers and manufacturers alike.

The MacBook Neo at $599

Apple’s recent launch of the MacBook Neo, priced at $599, has set a new standard for affordable laptops. Despite some compromises in features, the MacBook Neo has received positive reviews and strong sales.

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