Google has unveiled its latest tablet in an apparent effort to upstage Apple’s anticipated update of its trend-setting iPad.

The Nexus 9 tablet announced Wednesday will compete against a new version of the iPad Air that Apple Inc. is expected to show off to reporters and analysts at a Thursday event in Cupertino, California.

Besides taking the wraps off its new tablet, Google Inc. also rolled out its latest Nexus smartphone. The Nexus 6 phone has a nearly 6-inch screen, eclipsing the 5.5-inch display on the iPhone 6 Plus that Apple began selling last month.

Both of the Nexus devices will run on a new version of Google’s Android operating system. The latest software is called “Lollipop” in keeping with Google’s tradition of naming its Android upgrades after treats.

Both devices will be available in Canada.

Nexus 9
The Nexus 9 tablet announced Wednesday will compete against a new version of the iPad Air that Apple Inc. is expected to show off to reporters and analysts at a Thursday event in Cupertino, California. (Google/HTC)

According to HTC, the Nexus 9 will be available from the Google Play store starting Oct. 17. The WiFi version can be pre-ordered from Future Shop and Best Buy “very soon,” while Telus and Rogers will carry the LTE version in late November. Pricing was not available.

Motorola Canada says the Nexus 6 will be available for pre-order through the Google Play Store later this month starting at $749.