Yes, Google makes tablets — the Pixel Tablet is their current model

Google manufactures the Pixel Tablet, released in 2023. It's a 10.95-inch device that runs Android and is designed to work closely with other Google products like Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Home. If you're looking for a tablet made by Google itself rather than a third-party manufacturer, the Pixel Tablet is what you'll find in stores.

Google has made tablets before. The company produced the Nexus line (2012–2015) and later the Pixel Slate (2018–2019), but both are discontinued. The Pixel Tablet represents Google's current commitment to the tablet market, though the company's tablet strategy has been less consistent than Apple's or Samsung's.

Key Takeaways

  • Google's current tablet is the Pixel Tablet, a 10.95-inch device released in 2023 that runs Android.
  • Google previously made the Nexus Tablet line and the Pixel Slate, but both product lines have been discontinued.
  • The Pixel Tablet is designed to integrate with Google services and can function as a smart home hub when docked.
  • Google also sells tablets made by other manufacturers under the "Android tablet" label, but these are not made by Google.

What the Pixel Tablet does and who it's for

The Pixel Tablet runs Android, Google's operating system, and comes with Google apps pre-installed: Chrome, Gmail, Google Photos, Google Drive, YouTube, and others. If you use Google services heavily, the integration is seamless — your photos sync automatically, your email is always there, and your browsing history follows you across devices.

The tablet also works as a smart home hub when you place it in the included dock. This means it can control your smart lights, thermostats, and other connected devices without needing a separate Google Home device. The dock charges the tablet and displays information like weather, calendar events, or a photo slideshow when you're not actively using it.

The Pixel Tablet is aimed at people who want a Google-made device for media consumption, web browsing, and light productivity tasks. It's not marketed as a laptop replacement the way Apple's iPad Pro is, and it doesn't come with a keyboard or stylus included.

How the Pixel Tablet compares to other tablets

The main competitor to the Pixel Tablet is Apple's iPad, which runs iOS and has a larger app ecosystem and more powerful processors. iPads also come in multiple sizes and price points, from the basic iPad to the iPad Pro. Samsung makes Android tablets (the Galaxy Tab line) that run the same Android operating system as the Pixel Tablet but are made by a different manufacturer.

One key difference: the Pixel Tablet is made by Google, so it receives Android updates directly from Google without waiting for a manufacturer to adapt them. This means security patches and new features arrive faster than they do on Samsung tablets. However, the Pixel Tablet has fewer customization options and a smaller selection of tablet-specific apps compared to iPads.

Price varies depending on storage capacity and current sales. The Pixel Tablet is generally positioned in the mid-range — more expensive than budget Android tablets but less costly than iPad Pro models. Check current retailers for exact pricing, as it changes seasonally.

Google's history with tablets and why they stopped making some

Google's tablet journey has been uneven. The Nexus Tablet line (2012–2015) was Google's first attempt to make tablets, produced in partnership with manufacturers like Asus. These were affordable devices that showed what Android could do on a larger screen, but they never achieved the market share of iPads.

The Pixel Slate (2018–2019) was Google's attempt at a premium tablet that could compete with the iPad Pro. It ran Chrome OS (Google's laptop operating system) rather than Android, came with a stylus and keyboard, and was aimed at professionals. However, it had performance issues, was expensive, and didn't find an audience. Google discontinued it after about a year.

The gap between the Pixel Slate's discontinuation (2019) and the Pixel Tablet's release (2023) shows Google's hesitation about the tablet market. The company has been more focused on phones and laptops. The Pixel Tablet's return suggests Google wants another chance, but with a simpler, more affordable approach than the Pixel Slate.

Where to buy a Pixel Tablet and what to expect

You can purchase the Pixel Tablet directly from Google's online store, from major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon, and from wireless carriers. Availability varies by region — it's widely available in the United States and Europe but may be harder to find in other countries.

The tablet comes with the charging dock included in the box, along with a USB-C power adapter. Storage options typically include 128GB and 256GB versions. Google also offers trade-in programs if you have an older tablet you want to exchange.

If you buy from Google's store, you get direct support from Google. If you buy from a retailer, you still get the same warranty and support, but you may have to contact Google directly rather than the retailer for technical issues. Check the return policy of wherever you buy — most retailers offer 14 to 30 days to return an unopened device.

Android tablets from other makers vs. Google's Pixel Tablet

Many companies make Android tablets — Samsung, Lenovo, Amazon, and others. These all run Android, the same operating system as the Pixel Tablet, but they're not made by Google. The difference is similar to the difference between a car made by Toyota and a car made by Honda: both are reliable, but they have different designs, features, and support.

Samsung's Galaxy Tab line is the most direct competitor to the Pixel Tablet. Galaxy Tabs often have more features, larger screens, and more powerful processors, but they also cost more. Lenovo and Amazon tablets are usually cheaper but may have fewer updates and less integration with Google services.

If you specifically want a tablet made by Google, the Pixel Tablet is your only current option. If you're open to any Android tablet, you have many choices at different price points.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Pixel Tablet without a Google account?

You can set up a Pixel Tablet without a Google account, but you won't be able to use most Google apps or sync your data. Google services are deeply integrated into Android, so having a Google account makes the tablet much more useful. You can create a free Google account if you don't have one.

Does the Pixel Tablet work with a stylus or keyboard?

The Pixel Tablet doesn't come with a stylus or keyboard, and Google doesn't make official accessories for either. You can buy third-party styluses and keyboards that work with Android, but they're not optimized for the Pixel Tablet the way Apple's Pencil is optimized for iPads. The tablet is designed primarily for touch input.

How long does the Pixel Tablet get software updates?

Google typically supports Pixel devices with major Android updates for three years and security updates for longer. The Pixel Tablet, released in 2023, should receive updates through at least 2026, though Google hasn't published an official end-of-support date. Check Google's support page for the most current information.

Is the Pixel Tablet good for drawing or note-taking?

The Pixel Tablet can run drawing and note-taking apps like Ibis Paint and Google Keep, but without a stylus it's less precise than an iPad with Apple Pencil. If drawing or handwriting is important to you, an iPad or a Samsung Galaxy Tab with stylus support would be better choices.

What's the difference between the Pixel Tablet and a Chromebook?

The Pixel Tablet runs Android (the phone operating system), while Chromebooks run Chrome OS (a laptop operating system). Chromebooks are better for typing, file management, and traditional computer tasks. Tablets are better for media, browsing, and touch-based apps. They're designed for different uses, even though both are made by Google.