The upcoming Google Pixel 10 series promises notable technological shifts, driven by the new Tensor G5 chip. A recent leak reveals the CPU changes, GPU choices, and added performance perks. The latest leak is from tech insider Kamila Wojciechowska, known for her close connections within Google’s hardware team. Wojciechowska shared the details on Android Authority, providing in-depth insights into the architecture, design, and production changes in the upcoming SoC. She highlights significant transitions in Google’s approach, especially the shift from Samsung to TSMC for chip fabrication and the integration of Imagination Technologies for graphics.
Shift to TSMC for Tensor G5
With the Tensor G5, Google moves its chip production from Samsung to TSMC, a major change for the brand’s SoC. The new Tensor, named “Laguna,” uses TSMC’s 3-nanometer N3E tech, aiming for better power use and stronger performance. This production shift may signal Google’s push to rival top phone chips, though it still has steps to catch up with key Android brands.
CPU Cluster Overhaul
The Tensor G5 moves to a 1 + 5 + 2 core layout, dropping the current 1 + 3 + 4 setup from the Tensor G4. This new plan centers on a main ARM Cortex X4 core, backed by five mid-range Cortex-A720 cores and two Cortex-A520 power-saving cores. By raising the count of mid-range cores, Google aims to boost the Pixel’s speed, though some may question the choice to use the “older” X4 design while newer cores exist.
Graphics Unit from Imagination Tech
One major upgrade in the Tensor G5 is a new GPU design from Imagination Tech. Google drops ARM Mali for a two-core DXT-48-1536 GPU, also adding support for ray tracing and GPU virtual tech. Running at 1.1 GHz, this unit could bring faster graphics, though it may still fall shy of the visuals from top chips like Snapdragon 8 Elite and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400.
NPU Gains and Efficiency Boosts
Google also updates the NPU in the Tensor G5, which now runs at either 18 or 9 TOPS (INT8 or FP16). Though this change gives a slight boost in AI tasks, the overall jump is modest at just 14 per cent over the G4. The Tensor G5’s full size is also large at 121 mm², making it bigger than Apple’s A18 Pro chip.
Despite these advancements, it’s apparent that Google still possesses considerable potential for progression in the semiconductor landscape. The Tensor G5 incorporates impressive capabilities; however, it might not yet compete with the uppermost, high-performance alternatives. Nevertheless, with the forthcoming Tensor G6—internally codenamed “Malibu”—currently under development, Google’s proprietary processors may soon ascend closer to leading standards. For now, Pixel 10 enthusiasts can anticipate a more adaptable, efficient chipset reinforced by a comprehensive technological enhancement.
