Google Pixel Tablet is reportedly on the chopping block — and we're confused

Google's Pixel Tablet once felt like a solid contender in a crowded market. But apparently, it didn’t make enough of a splash, as the follow-up might have been canceled.

Android Authority reported on Thursday that the so-called Pixel Tablet 2 has been canceled internally at Google before it was ever officially announced. The timing on this report is a bit strange for multiple reasons.

Firstly, just last week, Android Authority reported that the Pixel Tablet 2 was in the works, boasting upgrades like a better camera, a more powerful processor, and compatibility with a keyboard cover — all significant changes over the original Pixel Tablet.

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Secondly, a separate report this week from Android Headlines indicated that the Pixel Tablet 3 (which obviously we know even less about at this stage) was canceled. However, Android Authority’s sources clarified that the canceled device was actually believed to be the Pixel Tablet 2. At this point, it’s unclear whether Google is actively developing any Pixel Tablets. While that doesn’t definitively mean they aren’t, it does leave us without answers.

Why the Pixel Tablet 2 might not happen

Google pulling the plug on the Pixel Tablet line would surely be disappointing for some people. The original Pixel Tablet had genuine novelty among tablets, thanks to the inclusion of a charging speaker dock with every device. For me, the Pixel Tablet was a desktop media device rather than something I held in my hands. Combine that with seamless integration with other Pixel and Nest devices, and you've got something that has real utility.

Unfortunately, perhaps the tablet market is just too crowded, thanks to the likes of Samsung and Apple. Android Authortiy's report also suggested that Google didn't think the Pixel Tablet 2 would do well financially. The lack of cellular connectivity and a lackluster 60Hz display likely didn’t do it any favors either.