CNET

A Google Nexus 10-inch class tablet is in the works, CNET has learned.

The 10.1-inch tablet will boast a pixel density that is higher than Apple's third-generation iPad, said Richard Shim, an analyst at NPD DisplaySearch.

The 2,560x1,600 display will have a PPI (pixels per inch) of about 299, said Shim. That tops the 264 PPI on the 9.7-inch 2,048x1,536 Retina iPad.

"It's going to be a high-end device," Shim said -- in contrast with Google's $199 Nexus 7 and upcoming $99 tablet.

But probably the biggest news is the partnership with Samsung. "They'll partner with Samsung and cobrand it with Samsung," Shim said.

To date, Google has partnered with Asus on the Nexus 7 tablet.

Related stories Google and Asus rumored to be working on $99 Nexus tablet

A co-branded tablet with Samsung would be a significant broadening of Google's relationship with Samsung. Google already cobrands the Galaxy Nexus Samsung smartphone.

Shim characterized his information about the 10.1-inch Nexus as "supply chain indications," which typically indicates a high likelihood that the product will come to fruition, according to Shim.

Shim also confirmed that Google will start production on a $99 tablet in December.

Back in July, the DisplaySearch analyst correctly predicted the new Kindle Fire tablets that launched in September.

CNET has contacted Google for comment and will update this report when we learn more.