Nexus 8 release date: Specs of the upcoming tablet, expected to be made by Asus for Google includes an 8-inch size, more RAM and a Snapdragon 600 or 800 processor. Initial news have suggested an April release date for the unit, but a recent report from Digital Trends suggest that Google may unveil the Nexus 8 this July.

The Mountain View tech giant has scheduled this year’s I/O conference for June 25 and June 26. But Digital Trends say, citing anonymous sources that neither a wearable gadget nor a new Nexus tablet will be unveiled at the event.

Rumors of an upcoming Nexus 8-inch tablet began after an image of a device appeared on the Android website, the size of which is seemingly larger than the Nexus 7. After several tech sites commented on the picture, Google immediately replaced the image.

The Nexus 8 release date rumor suggests that ASUS will develop an 8-inch tablet, which is set to be roll out in April with the goal of avoiding competition with Nexus 7 2013.

The International Business Times noted that the April launch date may happen due to the Nexus 7 2013 falling short of expectations. With the new rumors and reports, the April unveiling has been moved by practically three months. Google appears to have high hopes with the Nexus 8 to make-up for the shortfall of 2 million units from Asus.

"Therefore, Google has selected 8-inch as the size of the third-generation Nexus 7 to avoid price competition and competition from 5- to 6-inch smartphones, the sources indicated. Google is very likely to continue co-brand cooperation with Asustek for the 8-inch tablet," says a source who spoke to the Business Times.

Google currently have a 5-inch Nexus 5 and a range of tablets labeled Google Play Edition, with the LG G Pad 8.3 being the first. The upcoming 8-inch tablet will be a new venture and market segment for Google to tap into.

As the Mobile World Congress begins on Monday, it is expected that we will hear more rumors, news and leaks about the upcoming Nexus 8.