Google’s reportedly planning to release a 8.9-inch Nexus tablet

Last week a questionable report out of China raised the possibility that Google’s next stock Android device could an 8.9-inch Nexus tablet. Now this rumor is getting a bit of support from research firm IHS Technology, which tells CNET that Google may really have a ”high-performance” 8.9-inch slate in the works. Manufacturing for the device will reportedly begin in July or August, IHS notes, suggesting we could see a launch in late summer or early fall. 

Google is planning an 8.9-inch Nexus tablet for release later this year, IHS Technology tells CNET. The product is expected to be “high-performance,” said Rhoda Alexander, director tablet and monitor research at IHS Technology in an email to CNET. “Volume production is expected to start in July or August,” she said. “The expectation is [that] this will be a lower volume product, carrying a premium price tag to support the specifications.” Alexander does not the know the pricing but said she “would not be surprised if it is higher than $299.” HTC may be the manufacturer, according to Alexander.