Google has moved to take on PC manufacturers including arch rivals Apple and Microsoft with the launch of an all new Android-powered Google Pixel C tablet that also comes with an optional keyboard similar to the Surface Pro 4.
Available to buy from the Google Store the Chromebook Pixel stablemate can be purchased for $693 for the 32GB version, meeting Google’s vow to get it out into the wild in time for the holidays.
A 64GB version is also available for $831, while the Smart Keyboard accessory iwill set you back $200.
Initial stocks appear to have been quickly exhausted in several markets with the Google Store currently showing the device as out of stock.
The USB Type-C device has built end-to-end by Google rather than in collaboration with a partner a la the Nexus range.
It has a 10.2-inch display with a 2560 x 1800 resolution and is powered by a desktop class NVIDIA X1 quad core processor with an integrated Maxwell GPU, which Google says will offer great gaming performance.
In terms of RAM there’ll be 3GB LPDDR4, 10 hours of battery life and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera to join the 2-megapixel front snapper.
“OK Google” voice control functionality is boosted by 4 far-field microphones, with Google working on the assumption a tablet tends to stay in one place.
The Pixel C was announced in September alongside the new Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P phones and will immediately enter competition with the Apple iPad Pro and the Microsoft Surface Pro 4.