Google takes aim at Apple’s iPad with launch of a tablet with a difference

The iPad might rule the roost when it comes to tablets but Google thinks it has the perfect device to steal Apple’s crown. The US firm has just unveiled its new Pixel Tablet and it comes with a feature you won’t find anywhere else. Tucked in the box is an a clever accessory called the Charging Speaker Dock. This neat hardware transforms the tablet into a smart speaker with a screen – a little like Amazon’s Echo Show gadgets. Once docked you can listen to music, look at photos, watch movies and use Google’s Assistant to show timers, view events and set alerts.

There’s also a Hub Mode which offers instant access to all of your smart home devices so you can view your video doorbell feed, adjust your thermostat or turn on the living room lights with just a tap.

To make things easy, the Pixel Tablet snaps to the dock with magnets and once connected it also charges things up so it’s full of power when you need to grab it and go. As the name of this accessory reveals, it also doubles up as a speaker so you’ll get room-filling audio without needing to splash out on an addition music maker.

Along with that dock, the Pixel Tablet features an 11-inch screen and there’s Google’s powerful G2 processor tucked inside which should easily cope with even the most demanding digital tasks.

Google is also boasting that 50 apps have been optimise for this tablet including Google Meet which now quickly adjusts the lighting as you move around your home and brings HD video calling to a tablet for the first time.

For those with busy lives, there’s a split screen mode so you can multitask with two apps running at the same time.

Finally, there’s the styling with the Pixel Tablet designed with a unique nano-ceramic coating which Google says has been inspired by the feel of porcelain.  This finish is meant to give it a soft matte look and a textured feel.

If all that sounds exciting then The Pixel Tablet comes bundled with the Charging Speaker Dock from £599.

Along with that device, Google has also launched a new phone called the Pixel 7a. This budget call maker comes packed with features including a fast G2 processor, wireless charging and an impressive rear camera all for just £449.

It’s available now.