Google Hits Pause: No New Tablets, Smart Rings, or Clamshell Foldables on the Horizon

Despite recently launching its Pixel 10 series and Pixel Watch 4 in a move that seems to directly challenge Samsung, Google has clarified that it does not intend to compete with its rival in every product category. The company is strategically choosing where to focus its efforts, and that means putting several potential device types on the back burner for now.

In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Google executives revealed a specific list of devices they are currently not developing. Most notably, the company confirmed it will not be entering the clamshell foldable phone market, a space currently active with products from Samsung and Motorola. This decision signals a clear divergence in foldable strategy between the tech giants.

The list of paused projects doesn't stop there. The executives also confirmed that Google is not working on a smart ring and has officially halted the development of new tablets. This statement serves as an indirect confirmation that the rumored Pixel Tablet 2 has been canceled, leaving the future of Google's tablet lineup uncertain.

When it comes to smart glasses, Google's position is more nuanced. Rick Osterloh, the head of Google's devices division, stated that whether the company will release a consumer smart glasses product is currently "pending." However, he firmly believes that glasses will be a crucial part of Google's future strategy. Instead of rushing a product to market, Google's focus is on building an open Android XR platform, encouraging other hardware manufacturers to develop smart glasses on its software.

Google's cautious approach is heavily influenced by its past. The original Google Glass was a high-profile failure and is often cited as one of the biggest tech flops of the last decade. With the market now evolving with products like the Meta Ray-Ban glasses, Google is likely taking a more deliberate and strategic path to re-enter the field, with executives even floating concepts like screenless glasses paired with a small phone for entertainment.

Looking at its existing product line, a design change may be coming for Pixel phones. Design Chief Ivy Ross mentioned that the company typically explores a new design language every two to three years. This suggests that the iconic "camera bar" design, which has defined Pixel phones for the last few generations, could be due for a significant refresh soon.

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