In a surprising move, Google has decided to pause or shelve several highly anticipated hardware categories, signaling a shift in its device strategy. While the tech giant continues to focus heavily on its Pixel smartphones and wearables, some products that fans were expecting won’t be arriving anytime soon.
No Pixel Tablet (For Now)
Google has quietly stepped back from its tablet plans, including the rumored Pixel Tablet 2. The device was expected to feature a high-refresh display, 5G support, and advanced smart home capabilities. However, the company has chosen not to move forward—possibly due to tough competition from Apple’s iPads and Samsung’s Galaxy Tabs.
This decision indicates Google’s cautious stance in categories where it has historically struggled to establish a foothold.
Smart Ring Dreams on Hold
With brands like Samsung and Oura pushing ahead in the smart ring segment, many wondered when Google would join the trend. For now, though, the company has no active plans for a Pixel-branded smart ring. The idea isn’t completely ruled out, but Google seems more interested in improving existing wearables like the Pixel Watch series before entering new markets.
Flip Phone Market Ignored
Foldable and flip phones have become an exciting space, with companies like Samsung, Motorola, and Oppo experimenting heavily in this form factor. Google, however, is steering clear of the clamshell-style flip phones. While the company continues to refine its foldable lineup (like the Pixel Fold), it doesn’t seem eager to explore flip phone innovation right now.
Smart Glasses: A “Wait and Watch” Game
Google’s past experiments with smart glasses are no secret, and its infamous Google Glass left a lasting impression. Although the company has prototypes and future concepts, it currently has no concrete consumer-ready smart glasses in development. Instead, Google is investing in software platforms like Android XR, allowing partner companies to build hardware while Google focuses on the ecosystem.
Where Google’s Attention Really Is
Despite stepping away from these categories, Google is not slowing down in others. The company is channeling its resources into:
- Pixel Smartphones – Upcoming Pixel 10 series expected to feature design refinements and improved performance.
- Wearables – Expanding the Pixel Watch lineup with new health and AI-powered features.
- XR & AI Platforms – Strengthening its ecosystem for extended reality and integrating AI tools deeply into hardware.
Why Google Is Playing It Safe
Google’s conservative approach seems to be a direct result of lessons learned from past failures. The original Google Glass was ahead of its time but failed to win over consumers. Similarly, the tablet category has never been Google’s strong suit. Instead of spreading itself thin, the company is now focusing on perfecting the devices that already resonate with its audience.
Final Thoughts
While fans may be disappointed that a Pixel Tablet 2, smart ring, flip phone, or new smart glasses aren’t on the horizon, Google’s strategy makes sense. The company is carefully prioritizing stability, user experience, and long-term ecosystem growth over rushing into competitive markets.