After being on sale for over a year, Google’s flagship Android tablet and iPad rival, the Pixel Tablet, has left users wondering if a second generation will be released. Let’s dive into the possibilities of the Pixel Tablet 2.
When the Pixel Tablet was first introduced to the market, it stood out with its unique features such as the Charging Speaker Dock and Chromecast abilities. However, the initial price tag of £599/$499, which included the docking station, made it a tough sell for many consumers.
When is the Pixel Tablet 2 release date?
Google recently unveiled the Pixel 9 range, Pixel Watch 3, and Pixel Buds Pro 2 at its Made by Google launch event on 13 August 2024. Despite speculations that the Pixel Tablet 2 would be among the new devices, it was noticeably absent from the event. This has led to speculation that the Pixel Tablet 2 may be released later in the year or even in 2025 as part of a 2-year refresh cycle.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
How much will the Pixel Tablet 2 cost?
While there are no leaks regarding the pricing of the Pixel Tablet 2, it is expected that Google will maintain a similar pricing structure to the original model. This could mean a starting price of £599/$499 for the 128GB variant, which includes the docking station, and £699/$599 for the 256GB model. However, there is hope that Google will offer the Pixel Tablet 2 as a standalone device this time around, learning from past criticisms.
Many users, including myself, criticized Google for not offering the tablet without the docking station initially. Therefore, pricing the Pixel Tablet 2 around £399/$399 as a standalone option, with the docking station available as an optional extra, would likely be a more appealing approach.
This pricing strategy could potentially help the Pixel Tablet 2 compete more effectively with the iPad and other tablets in the market.
What we want to see in the Pixel Tablet 2
As there are no rumors yet regarding the specs and design of the Pixel Tablet 2, here are some improvements we hope to see in the second generation device.
An improved screen
While the display on the Pixel Tablet is decent, there is room for improvement. Upgrading to an OLED panel with higher peak brightness and a 90- or 120Hz refresh rate would enhance the user experience. It is possible that Google may introduce these upgrades in a higher-priced model, such as the Pixel Tablet 2 Pro.
In the Android 14 beta, references to codenames ‘Clementine’ and ‘Kiyomi’ were found, suggesting that these could be related to the Pixel Tablet 2. This hints at potential screen enhancements and improvements in the upcoming device.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Better audio
While the audio quality on the Pixel Tablet is satisfactory, the Charging Speaker Dock did not meet expectations, especially when compared to similar devices like the Nest Hub Max. To enhance the audio experience, Google should consider incorporating more and better quality drivers, especially if they plan to maintain a similar price for the docking station.
Faster charging
Google, like other tech companies, has been slow to adapt to faster charging speeds. With the Pixel Tablet currently charging at 15W via USB-C, an upgrade to 25W or higher charging speeds would be more in line with modern standards.
Chromecast without needing the dock
One unique feature of the Pixel Tablet is its Chromecast functionality, allowing users to cast content from their phones to the tablet. However, the tablet must be docked for this feature to work, limiting its portability. It would be beneficial if Google could make Chromecast functionality available without the need for the dock.