Apple launched the original iPad in 2010. At the time, it was lambasted as being a ridiculous idea. A giant smartphone? What would be the point in that? Apple laughed all the way to the bank, though, as the iPad is now the world’s most popular tablet computer — and only growing.
Of course, it didn’t take long for a Google tablet to pop up. First, the company released several tablets in the Nexus line, with the Nexus 7 being one of the most fondly remembered devices in Google’s history. The last Android tablet from the company was the Pixel C, seen in the photo above. Obviously, there have been plenty of third-party Android tablets launched over the years, although releases aren’t as common as they used to be.
After the Pixel C, Google took a break from slate computers. It resurfaced with a new line of computers in the Pixel Slate line, which this time ran on Chrome OS. They lasted a single generation before Google exited the tablet market completely.
While there likely won’t be another Google tablet, it appears the company is ready to try again at helping to steal some of Apple’s market share.
Google likes tablets again: The future of computing?
A new job posting from Google demonstrates the company’s renewed push in the tablet market. The job listing is for a Senior Engineering Manager, Android Tablet App Experience (via 9to5Google). Here’s a portion of what Google says it’s looking for:We believe that the future of computing is shifting towards more powerful and capable tablets. We are working to deliver the next chapter of computing and input by launching seamless support across our platforms and hero experiences that unlock new and better ways of being productive and creative.
The listing doesn’t suggest there would be a new Google tablet. However, it appears Google wants employees to help bring Android tablets to market through OEM partners. In other words, Google might be finally understanding that if Android tablets are going to succeed, OEMs need support from Google and not to just do it all themselves.
The surprise launch of Android 12L was the first sign that Google might care about tablets again. However, this job posting suggests the company is going to do much more than just launch an Android version that keeps larger displays in mind.
Here’s hoping Google doesn’t drop the ball again. It’s about time Android fans had tablets that fully compete with iPads.
