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It goes without saying that the HTC-built Nexus 9 is designed as Google's iPad Air 2 killer but a new report is saying that the Nexus maker is looking beyond the goal of slaying the tablet king - Apple that is.

According to Engadget, the Nexus 9 blueprint is all about setting a benchmark for Android tablet makers to equal or better yet exceed. The objective, the report added, is to accelerate the shift of Android slates from entry-level to premium stage.

Apparently, Google is envisioning that in order to dethrone Apple it has to be a collective initiative that involves all players in the Android system - the device vendors collaborating closely with the Internet search giant.

Ideally, the result would lead to the production of high-end Android tablets that show off the following as default specs and features:

HTC design philosophy

HTC was tapped by Google because the latter was impressed with the craftsmanship that was seen with the HTC One M7 and M8. With the Nexus 9, Google realized it plan of creating a device that has the elements of usability, precision details, uncluttered features and uncompromising choice on build materials.

The Nexus 9 turned out as simple but beautiful and Google wants the succeeding Android tablets from other makers to follow HTC's lead.

Top-notch performance

In a recent GFXBench test results that Phone Arena first picked up, it was indicated that the iPad Air 2 dominated the Nexus 9 in the performance showdown. However, the data also prove that Google's stock Android challenger is fast catching up as it chalked up scores that breathed hard on the Air 2 neck.

Google looks forward to see serious iPad Air challengers in the upcoming batches of Android tablets, all packing the same or better power that the Nexus 9 is stuffed with.

Fresh fashion sense

Google has abandoned the usual black, white or silver finish with the Nexus 9, opting instead for colour options that not only highlight new look but also reflect of a new fashion statement, which Engadget said is one of the things that Google would want to infect the Android tablet market with through its latest flagship tablet.

Accessibility

The sticker price for the basic Nexus 9 is $400, which is a mark that remains in line with Google's aim of delivering high-end devices that are accessible to most users. This is one of the tablet business models that Google would want to be adopted by the likes of Samsung, Sony and LG.

Native or near-stock Android

Lollipop 5.0 on the Nexus 9 is pure Android at its latest form and with the latest mix, Google is hoping that future slates in the system will depend more on the raw power and capabilities of the mobile operating system, starting off with the new build and onwards.

The Nexus 9 is scheduled to go live on Google Play Store starting on November 3, likely setting off the device's gradual and global release date.