Key Takeaways
- For the Pixel 10 and 11 CPUs, Google is allegedly switching to more sophisticated TSMC techniques.
- Significant gains in performance and power efficiency could result from this.
- But the competition isn’t stagnating.
According to alleged insiders from Google’s silicon business, the Pixel 10 and 11 may employ chip manufacturing techniques that enable them to achieve significant improvements in battery life and performance.
An “unprecedented” leak, according to Android Authority sources, has shown that the Tensor G5 in the Pixel 10 would be manufactured using the same 3-nanometer TSMC process as the A18 Pro in Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro rather than Samsung’s 4nm method. This should instantly improve the Pixel 10’s power efficiency and possibly speed.
The Pixel 11 will, however, use a more advanced 3nm technology for the Tensor G6. Google may closely follow the rivalry, as Apple is believed to adopt the same strategy for the iPhone 17’s A19.
Google has not confirmed anything, and it is unlikely that the Pixel 10 by itself will be available before the summer of 2025.
However, there have long been rumors that Google was moving its tensor manufacturing from Samsung to TSMC. Despite being virtually on par with other flagship phones, benchmarks reveal that the Pixel 9’s Tensor G4 performs worse in certain tests. Many attribute that to Samsung’s antiquated production methods. The Pixel 10 chip will theoretically be as fast as the best in the market thanks to the adoption of TSMC, which will remove those constraints.
Naturally, the worry is that other brands aren’t remaining the same. The Tensor G5 might appear sluggish in comparison to Qualcomm’s recently released Snapdragon 8 Elite, a possible generational jump. Naturally, in the weeks leading up to the release of the iPhone 17, Google may be following Apple’s current strategy. Google may be narrowing the gap, but it won’t completely close it.
