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Nvidia is bringing its powerful Maxwell GPU architecture with its Tegra X1 chip to Google’s latest Android device, known as the Pixel C.
Launched at Google’s event in San Francisco, the Pixel C is the first tablet built end-to-end by the tech giant.
Nvidia’s 256-core Tegra X1, which was the same chip used in the Shield Android TV, brings advanced graphics and games to Google’s tablet.
With a Tegra X1 inside, the device offers users the same graphics architecture as Nvidia’s GeForce line of graphics cards.
The chip comes with an eight CPU-core, 64-bit ARM, 20 nm SOC, and comes with support for 4K video, as well as 1080p display.
This isn’t the first time Nvidia has worked with Google – the firm boosted the Nexus 7 tablet with Tegra-power as well as the Nexus 9, which came with the Tegra K1 chip.
Google’s Pixel C features a 10.2-inch display with a 2560×1800 resolution, USB Type-C port and the latest version of Android – 6.0 Marshmallow.
Google is remaining coy about a release date for the Pixel, but stated at the event it will be available in time for the holidays, where prices will start at $499 (£328) for a 32GB version and $599 (£394) for a 64GB version.
The tablet also looks strikingly similar to Microsoft’s Surface Pro 3 and the latest iPad Pro from Apple thanks to its large display size, and an optional Bluetooth keyboard, which Google has priced at $149 (£98).
The nifty keyboard works by docking with the tablet, which sticks to the back of the device when not in use, plus it charges the Pixel when it is closed with the tablet attached.
This development just goes to show that the tablet market is starting to revive, as more and more devices are launching with fresh specs.
For example, rumours have already begun to circulate around the Surface Pro 4 from Microsoft, and now that Amazon has also just released its budget Fire tablet, we may certainly start to see an increase in sales once again.
Now that Nvidia has also embedded its powerful chips into Google’s latest product, these small tablets may soon be able to offer similar functions as PCs and laptops, and could help revive the tablet market.
