Android Police reported today that Google is working on a new Pixel laptop, code name Bison, to be released next autumn. Most interestingly, the laptop will run a new operating system, with the code name Andromeda.*
This new OS will be a combination of Android and Chrome OS, and was first mentioned in reports by The Wall Street Journal and The Verge last year. Google will reportedly market the OS as the equivalent of Windows or MacOS for productivity, capable of running Office, Photoshop and other programs. 9to5Google suggests that Google are currently testing the operating system on the Nexus 9 tablet, which was recently discontinued.
In terms of hardware, the laptop will have a 12.3-inch display, with a 10mm frame that can convert into a tablet mode with stylus support. Two USB-C ports, a backlit keyboard and a glass trackpad are also mentioned. It’ll be powered by an Intel processor, likely a low-power model, backed with 32GB or 128GB of storage and 8GB or 16GB of RAM. It will also have a 3.5mm port — amazing!
It’s unknown whether Google will make any mention of the device at its October 4th event, which is expected to include two new phones (Pixel X and Pixel XL). A 7-inch Huawei tablet has also been appearing in some rumours, and could yet to be announced at the same event.
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* It’s not known if Google’s Andromeda has any connection to EA’s Mass Effect Andromeda, the 2017 release of the critically acclaimed RPG series. We assume not, but it could be a fun crossover.