According to Android Headlines‘ exclusive article, Google plans to halt the development of its Pixel Tablet 3, as confirmed by multiple industry sources. This cancellation, revealed last week, involved communicating the decision to the teams involved, who are reportedly being reassigned to other projects.
Google cancels Pixel Tablet 3 development amidst strategy shift
Google’s foray into tablets has been inconsistent over the years. After announcing its exit from the tablet market in 2019, Google re-entered with the Pixel Tablet, released in 2023, only to revert to its earlier stance almost immediately. The Pixel Tablet was aimed at being a competitive alternative to Apple’s iPads; however, its reception revealed that Google was not fully committed to the tablet experience. The Pixel Tablet 3, internally codenamed Kiyomi, was anticipated as the next step in Google’s tablet evolution, but sources confirm it will not materialize.
The cancellation reflects a broader lack of faith in the tablet format within Google, evidenced by the company’s decision not to integrate substantial tablet-specific features into Android. The upcoming Pixel Tablet 2 is now expected to be the last device of its kind, at least for the foreseeable future. Despite these setbacks, development continues within the Android team to enhance features for existing and future tablet and foldable devices.
Sources highlighted that this decision significantly alters Google’s hardware plans, moving beyond mere internal discussions and beginning to impact external partnerships. The Pixel Tablet 2, while set to launch next year, is now viewed as potentially lacking any substantial upgrades since its successor has been scrapped.
The Pixel Tablet was marketed as a premium product but received criticism for its design, which some compared to cheaper alternatives. The device’s inclusion of a speaker dock was one of its few redeeming features. Unfortunately, the cancellation of its successor leaves the Pixel Tablet 2 somewhat obsolete before its release.
Google’s decision appears to focus on the integration of Chrome OS and Android, steering attention towards potential laptop developments.
Featured image credit: Google
