The Google Pixel Slate, a sleek and powerful tablet with a detachable keyboard, was once hailed as a game-changer in the world of mobile computing. It arrived in 2018 with promises of high-end performance, a seamless Chrome OS experience, and a stylish design. But the Pixel Slate’s journey wasn’t without its bumps.
Today, the question on many minds is: Does Google still make the Pixel Slate? The short answer is no. Google officially discontinued the Pixel Slate in 2020, marking the end of a promising chapter for their foray into the tablet market.
However, understanding the Pixel Slate’s legacy requires exploring its origins, its strengths, and the reasons behind its eventual demise. Let’s delve deeper into the Pixel Slate’s story and see what it reveals about the future of Google’s hardware ambitions.
A Brief History of the Pixel Slate: The Rise and Fall of Google’s Premium Tablet
The Pixel Slate emerged in a crowded market dominated by Apple’s iPad and Microsoft’s Surface line. Google aimed to carve out its own niche with a device that combined the flexibility of a tablet with the productivity of a laptop.
The Pixel Slate boasted a vibrant 12.3-inch display, powered by Intel’s 8th-gen processors, and a sleek, minimalist design. Its biggest selling point was Chrome OS, Google’s operating system known for its speed, security, and seamless integration with Google services.
The Pixel Slate was initially launched in two main configurations: a base model with a Celeron processor and a high-end model with a Core i5 processor. Both models came with a touchscreen, optional keyboard, and optional Pixelbook Pen, offering flexibility and versatility.
The Pixel Slate’s Strengths: What Made it Stand Out?
Despite its discontinuation, the Pixel Slate had several strengths that resonated with early adopters and still hold relevance today.
1. Chrome OS Powerhouse:
The Pixel Slate was a pioneer in the world of Chrome OS tablets. It leveraged the strengths of Chrome OS, including its smooth performance, wide app ecosystem, and effortless cloud integration.
2. Vibrant Display:
The Pixel Slate’s 12.3-inch touchscreen offered stunning visuals and a responsive user experience. Its high resolution and vibrant colors made it ideal for browsing, watching videos, and even light creative work.
3. Stylish and Portable Design:
Google’s design aesthetic shines in the Pixel Slate’s minimalist and sleek design. It was lightweight and easily portable, making it a good option for on-the-go professionals or students.
The Challenges That Led to the Pixel Slate’s Discontinuation
Despite its strengths, the Pixel Slate faced several challenges that ultimately contributed to its discontinuation.
1. High Price Point:
The Pixel Slate’s starting price was higher than its competitors, particularly in the base model with a Celeron processor. This price point was difficult for many consumers to justify, especially when Apple’s iPad offered a more budget-friendly option.
2. Limited App Availability:
While Chrome OS has come a long way in terms of app availability, it still lagged behind iPadOS and Windows in terms of native app support for creative and productivity tasks. This limitation hindered the Pixel Slate’s appeal for users seeking a powerful creative device.
3. Lack of Marketing and Promotion:
Google’s marketing campaign for the Pixel Slate was relatively muted compared to their other product launches. This lack of visibility likely contributed to lower sales and awareness.
4. The Rise of Chromebooks:
Google’s own Chromebook line, which offered similar functionality at a lower price point, became increasingly popular. This internal competition ultimately overshadowed the Pixel Slate.
The Pixel Slate’s Legacy: A Glimpse into the Future of Google’s Hardware Ambitions
The discontinuation of the Pixel Slate was a setback for Google’s hardware aspirations. However, it also provided valuable lessons for the company. Google learned that its strength lies in providing accessible and affordable solutions, like the Chromebook line, rather than aiming for the premium market with products like the Pixel Slate.
This experience likely contributed to the company’s shift in focus towards expanding the Chromebook ecosystem and creating more affordable and accessible devices.
The Pixel Slate’s story illustrates the challenges of navigating the complex and competitive landscape of the mobile computing market. While it might not be in production anymore, the Pixel Slate remains a testament to Google’s ability to innovate and push the boundaries of what a tablet can do.
The Future of Google’s Tablet Strategy: A Focus on Chrome OS and Affordability
While the Pixel Slate is no longer available, Google continues to invest in its Chrome OS ecosystem.
The future of Google’s tablet strategy likely lies in focusing on more affordable and versatile devices that leverage the strengths of Chrome OS. Expect to see more Chrome OS tablets emerge with a focus on affordability, flexibility, and seamless integration with Google’s ecosystem.
The Pixel Slate’s legacy serves as a reminder that while innovation is essential, so is achieving the right balance between features, price point, and market demand. Google’s future successes in the tablet market will depend on its ability to deliver on these crucial aspects.
FAQs
Q1: What is the Google Pixel Slate?
The Google Pixel Slate was a premium 2-in-1 tablet released by Google in 2018. It featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a detachable keyboard, and a stylus option. The Pixel Slate was positioned as a high-end competitor to the Microsoft Surface Pro, aiming to provide a seamless blend of tablet and laptop functionality. It ran on Google’s Chrome OS operating system, offering a simplified user experience and cloud-based functionality.
While the Pixel Slate had some notable features, it faced stiff competition from the established Microsoft Surface line and struggled to gain widespread adoption. Its initial high price point and limited app selection also contributed to its relatively short life cycle.
Q2: Is the Pixel Slate Still Available for Purchase?
Unfortunately, the Google Pixel Slate is no longer available for purchase. Google officially discontinued the device in 2020, opting to focus on other products in its portfolio. While you might find some used or refurbished units online, it’s important to be aware of potential limitations and lack of manufacturer support.
If you’re looking for a premium 2-in-1 tablet, you’ll need to consider alternative options from manufacturers like Microsoft, Samsung, or Lenovo. These companies offer a wide range of devices with varying features and price points.
Q3: What was the Pixel Slate’s Operating System?
The Google Pixel Slate ran on Chrome OS, Google’s web-centric operating system. Chrome OS is known for its simple, streamlined interface, strong security features, and seamless integration with Google services. It primarily relies on web-based applications and utilizes cloud storage for user data.
While Chrome OS is suitable for many tasks, it may not be ideal for all users. Its reliance on web apps can limit certain functionalities and might not appeal to users accustomed to traditional desktop software.
Q4: Did the Pixel Slate have Good Battery Life?
The Google Pixel Slate offered decent battery life, with reports of around 10-12 hours of mixed usage. However, its battery life could vary depending on the brightness level, Wi-Fi connectivity, and the type of tasks being performed.
Compared to some other tablets on the market, the Pixel Slate’s battery life was not exceptional. Its performance in this area was largely on par with competitors, but it didn’t stand out in terms of longevity.
Q5: Why Did Google Discontinue the Pixel Slate?
There were several factors that led to the discontinuation of the Google Pixel Slate. Firstly, its initial high price point made it less accessible to a wider audience. Secondly, the limited app selection on Chrome OS compared to other platforms hindered its appeal.
Furthermore, the Pixel Slate faced strong competition from established players like the Microsoft Surface line, which had a larger market share and more robust ecosystems. These factors ultimately led to Google’s decision to focus on other products within its portfolio.
Q6: What Are Some Alternatives to the Pixel Slate?
If you’re looking for a premium 2-in-1 tablet similar to the Pixel Slate, you have several options available. The Microsoft Surface Pro line remains a popular choice, offering a range of models with different specs and configurations. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S series is another strong contender, known for its excellent displays and versatile features.
Lenovo’s Yoga line also includes several 2-in-1 tablets that cater to various needs. Ultimately, the best alternative for you will depend on your specific requirements and budget.
Q7: What Does the Future Hold for Google’s Tablet Strategy?
While Google has discontinued the Pixel Slate, the company is still actively involved in the tablet market. Google has focused on improving Chrome OS, adding more features and support for Android applications. This shift allows Google to offer a more comprehensive experience for tablet users, potentially attracting a wider audience.
It remains to be seen what Google’s future tablet strategy will entail. However, the company’s continued investment in Chrome OS and its commitment to the tablet market suggest that we may see more innovative and competitive devices from Google in the years to come.