Google wanted to run Pixel C on Chrome OS

Google originally wanted to run the Pixel C tablet running Android on Chrome OS. That’s what Ars Technica claims. It was then supposed to be a dual-boot device with both Android and Chrome OS, but that idea too was shelved.

The site arrives at these conclusions by combining various pieces of information from different sources. Almost a year and a half ago, the name Ryu appeared as a reference to a new device with touchscreen, wireless charging, USB-C and an Nvidia-soc in the code for Chrome OS. Not only does the Pixel C have that hardware, but the build.prop, a file that contains information about hardware and software for Android devices, also contains the name Ryu.

In addition, Google planned to create a touchscreen version of Chrome OS under the name Project Athena, which would include a virtual keyboard that can now be found in the settings and a new task manager with large thumbnails, instead of the taskbar that is now in Chrome. OS sits.

After that, Google wanted to put both Chrome OS and Android on the Pixel C with the project Frankenboard, something Digitimes reported about. In the summer, Google canceled this project. Two months later, Google announced the final tablet and the Pixel C went on sale earlier this week. With an update, the Pixel C will receive some features that are still missing, such as a split screen mode.