Google Pixel Slate Features

The Google Pixel Slate runs the latest version of Chrome OS. While the road to a smooth user experience on this OS has been bumpy, to say the least, Google has put enough effort behind it that the usability is quite pleasant. Firstly, the Pixel Slate can run Android applications. Furthermore, it offers a full desktop-class version of Chrome. The windowing system has been improved to help moving applications around. And, it even offers support for some Linux applications. Chrome OS on the Pixel Slate is smart enough to know when the keyboard has been detached. It will automatically shift from laptop mode to tablet mode depending on this. In tablet mode, there are new, more intuitive gestures for switching between, closing, and triggering split-screen for applications. Some apps also support picture-in-picture mode. The Pixel Slate also offers compatibility with the Pixelbook Pen. The experience of using this is a mixed bag. Not only do you have to buy the stylus separately, but there is also no attachment mechanism provided. This makes it harder for someone to carry it around. Price-to-performance is also a matter worth considering when deciding to purchase the Pixel Slate. Looking at this from a real-world productivity point of view, Chrome OS just cannot match up to Windows and macOS. On the other hand, if the Chrome OS experience is what you are looking for, even the entry-level model is priced at a considerable premium if you take into account the added costs of the stylus and keyboard. This makes the Pixel Slate a hard sell considering you can get a similar experience with something like the Samsung Chromebook Pro v2 that comes with a keyboard and stylus for $500.