Even before the Google Pixel Tablet 2 is released, new speculations are arising about the Pixel Tablet 3. A report published by Android Authority suggests some major updations on the forthcoming Pixel Tablet 3 could actually replace a laptop.
The Pixel Tablet 3 can be expected only somewhere around 2027 and a leak from Google’s gChips division suggests that they might be adding a second USB-C port to its Tensor G6 chip. The newly added port will support external displays through the DisplayPort and is made specifically for tablets.
Google for some time has been making several attempts to make the Pixel tablets suitable for working, like laptops. An example of this is the work on desktop mode without an external display. There are also rumors about a keyboard accessory as well. The newest speculations on the third model of Pixel tablets also open doors to the same idea.
The Google Pixel Tablet already has two exposed USB ports, the regular USB-C port, and a USB 2.0 connection, which is hidden in the pogo pins used to connect the dock. The report says that Google will be sticking to the dock concept and the connection in the form of pogo pins, but would add an additional USB-C port.
The Tensor G6 is speculated to have a second USB-C controller for ‘tablet-only use cases’ based on the leak. The port comes under the USB 3.2 standard. The speed is suspected to be 10Gbps, but no clear evidence is available. This speed is reported to be the most common and cheapest speed according to Tom’s Hardware.
It will also support DisplayPort output, having two displays when used with daisy-chaining (connecting several devices together in a linear series). The positioning of the port also suggests that Google intends to make a device that suits a working environment by placing the ports physically on the opposite sides of the chip to make signal routing easier for tablets.
The second USB port can make the tablet more suitable for desktop and other advanced uses. A question may arise as to whether the Android OS used on tablets can be compatible with desktop use. Even though it is used in smartphones and tablets, Android can easily handle simpler tasks. There were previous reports on Google’s development of a desktop mode overhaul for Android 15 that could open multiple windows, a new status bar, and private spaces.
Incorporating two USBs and a keyboard accessory can further its usage, and Google is said to support up to four external displays, two displays connected directly to the USB-C ports and two more through the daisy-chaining according to the report. This can make the tablet open to an increase in multitasking capabilities.
There were previous speculations on Google’s creating a Pixel keyboard, but not yet been officially confirmed. The second port on the Pixel Tablet could use such a keyboard and an external display as well.
The current trend in tablets is towards this shift to a workable device. Apple on its iPad Pro series is also working on a similar trend. The upcoming Pixel tablets might also be following Apple iPad Pro’s path. These multi-functional tablets could potentially replace laptops. Tablets are more portable, lighter than laptops, and more affordable.
Google with these latest reports looks like breaking the boundaries of what tablets can do in general. The name of the speculated third model of the Pixel model is still unsure and is only predicted to be Pixel Tablet 3, but there is no credibility to it.
Tablets having these extra USB ports can broaden their use and can be interchangeably used for work and entertainment.
