Google Pixel Tablet launch imminent as the unit arrives on FCC revealing some connectivity features
The much-anticipated Google Pixel Tablet has arrived for FCC approval, revealing that the device, like the Pixel 6 Pro and Pixel 7 Pro, will feature ultra-wideband (UWB) connectivity.
Further details on the Google Pixel Tablet FCC certification
Each gadget having a wireless connection must go through several regulatory authorities throughout the world, including the FCC in the United States, before it can be sold. A new Made by Google gadget with the model number GTU8P was discovered in the FCC’s database today.
The location stated in a paper outlining where to find the requisite FCC e-label – “Settings > About > Regulatory labels” – corresponds to this being an Android device. Moreover, the new Google product is only supported by three different connection standards: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and UWB. We suspect that GTU8P is the Google Pixel Tablet due to the lack of cellular connectivity.
Beyond just indicating that the Pixel Tablet is getting closer to a retail release – fingers crossed for Google I/O! – this is our first confirmation of the large-screen device supporting UWB connection. UWB has been somewhat underutilized on the Pixel series up to this time, basically allowing one’s phone to be used as a digital vehicle key, a duty that a huge tablet would struggle with.
Alternatively, it’s plausible that Google is prepping the Google Pixel Tablet to operate with the Android “Tap to Transfer” system, which would replicate the Apple ecosystem’s ability to “hand off” material to a HomePod. In a related vein, we’ve seen indications that a forthcoming Nest speaker may use UWB hardware. It’s unclear if the Pixel Tablet’s UWB compatibility is designed for receiving signals (touch your phone to the tablet to Cast music), transmitting signals (tap tablet to the speaker), or both. Apart from that endeavor, UWB should play a role in Google’s future Finder Network, which will be used to find misplaced gadgets/items.
Meanwhile, today’s FCC filing for the Pixel Tablet provides little actual data about the gadget, but it suggests that it will be released in the next weeks or months.
