We recently reported on the development of a new board codenamed "Meru," added to the lineup of Snapdragon X-powered Googlebooks. Now, fresh evidence suggests this upcoming device could feature a detachable form factor.
According to ChromeUnboxed, new code commits reveal references to a detachable design, along with features geared toward peripheral devices, such as wireless charging.
Tablet-Specific Features Uncovered in Code
Recent commits in the Chromium Gerrit highlight the addition of tablet-specific hardware configurations not typically found in standard clamshell laptops:
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Detachable Form Factor: Similar to other devices in its class, specific code indicating a detachable design has been implemented.
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Removal of Built-in Keyboard Settings: Internal keyboard layout files, which are standard in clamshell models, have been removed.
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Physical Volume Buttons and Recovery Mode: In addition to enabling physical volume rockers on the side, new button controls have been integrated to allow for OS recovery even when a keyboard is not attached.
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Wireless Stylus Charging: Wireless charging capabilities have been enabled, allowing an active stylus to be powered by magnetically attaching it to the side of the device. The hardware explicitly mentions CTN73x.
When we initially reported on this at GbookHub, these specific commits had not yet been registered, indicating they were added shortly after.
A Potential Addition to Lenovo's "Duet" Series?
As previously reported, "Meru" is being built using copied code from HP's "Quartz" board. However, it has come to light that the engineers leading its development are also involved with Lenovo Googlebook Duet m (13", 11) / Sapphire.
While the current Googlebook Duet m (13", 11) is powered by MediaTek's Kompanio Ultra 910, if "Meru" indeed turns out to be a Lenovo device, it could mark the arrival of a second detachable (tablet) Googlebook—this time equipped with a Snapdragon X Plus processor.
Slated for a 2027 Release or Later?
The Googlebooks scheduled for a Fall 2026 release are categorized under the top-tier Aluminium Premium class, and six likely candidates are already known.
Given the timing of its development cycle, the newly discovered "Meru" will likely miss this initial launch window and is expected to debut in 2027 or later.
Furthermore, it was previously indicated that "Annite" and "Pic"—boards that entered development around the same time—might feature the Snapdragon X Plus, unlike "Quartz" and "Mica," which utilize the Snapdragon X Elite. Consequently, it is highly plausible that "Meru" will also adopt the Snapdragon X Plus platform.