Other analysts have previously argued that a like Amazon.

Gartenberg wouldn't speculate on an iPad Mini or Apple's response to the Nexus 7. But he made an interesting observation.

"It's certainly easier for Google to compete against an Apple product that doesn't exist," Gartenberg.

That, he continued, seems to be a theme lately.

"The impression is that Microsoft is going after Google with its Surface," said Gartenberg, referring to of 10.6-in. tablets running Windows RT or Windows 8 Pro. "Now Google seems to be taking on Amazon with the Nexus 7. No one is wiling to take on Apple, which is probably smart."