Google’s first tablet in many years, the Pixel Tablet, takes a different approach by focusing on being a great media consumption device and a useful smart display. The tablet doesn't aim to replace laptops or revolutionize computing but excels in providing a fantastic experience for watching videos, playing games, and browsing the web. One unique feature sets it apart: an included speaker dock that not only charges the tablet but also transforms it into a smart display.
Design and Display:
The Pixel Tablet features an 11-inch LCD display with a sharp 2560 x 1600 resolution and wide viewing angles. While it may not match the brightness and contrast of high-end competitors, it delivers excellent visuals for media consumption. The 16:10 aspect ratio, however, is more suitable for watching videos than reading, making it less ideal for extensive reading sessions.
Audio and Connectivity:
Equipped with four speakers, the Pixel Tablet delivers clear audio and noticeable stereo separation. However, it lacks a headphone jack, relying on Bluetooth or a USB-C dongle for private audio. The absence of a headphone jack may be inconvenient for some users, especially considering the communal nature of the device.
Performance and Battery Life:
Powered by the Google-made Tensor G2 processor, coupled with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage, the Pixel Tablet provides responsive performance for most tasks. However, the tablet tends to warm up even during basic operations, and its battery life falls short of Google's advertised 12 hours, typically lasting between six to eight hours. Thankfully, the included speaker dock makes charging effortless and ensures the tablet is always ready to go.
The Speaker Dock: A Game-Changer:
The standout feature of the Pixel Tablet is the speaker dock, which serves as both a charging station and a smart display mount. By simply placing the tablet on the dock, users can seamlessly transfer audio playback to the dock's superior speakers, making it hassle-free and intuitive. Furthermore, the dock solves the common problem of an uncharged tablet by providing a designated place to store and charge it when not in use.
Smart Display Capabilities:
When mounted on the speaker dock, the Pixel Tablet transforms into a smart display, resembling Google's Nest Hub Max. With built-in far-field microphones and the Google Assistant, it can respond to voice commands, display weather updates, sports scores, and more. The tablet can also function as a control panel for managing smart home devices, though it lacks some advanced features found in the Nest Hub.
Software and App Support:
The Pixel Tablet runs on Android software, featuring a customizable interface similar to Google's Pixel phones. While Google has optimized its own apps for the tablet's larger display, many third-party apps still struggle to adapt to the tablet form factor. Apps designed for phones may stretch to fill the screen, resulting in wasted space. However, Google's own apps, such as Chrome, Maps, and Gmail, have tablet-specific designs that work well.
Verdict:
The Google Pixel Tablet succeeds in its goal of being a top-tier media consumption device and a versatile smart display. Its impressive display, powerful performance, and the game-changing speaker dock make it a great choice for watching videos, playing games, and controlling your smart home. However, its 16:10 aspect ratio may not be ideal for extensive reading, and app support for larger screens still needs improvement. Overall, the Pixel Tablet offers a compelling experience, particularly for those seeking a tablet primarily for entertainment purposes.