What you need to know
* The Tensor G6 in the Pixel 11 will reportedly use a MediaTek M90 modem instead of Samsung.
* The M90 modem offers 12 Gbps speeds, dual-active 5G, satellite connectivity, and AI-powered efficiency boosts.
* It’s said to be built on TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm process, promising up to 15% faster CPU performance and 30% better power efficiency.
Google’s next big hardware move might be its boldest yet. For years, Samsung has been a crucial partner in building Google’s Tensor chips and modems, but that relationship is starting to look more like history.
The upcoming Pixel 11 presumably powered by the Tensor G6, is shaping up to be the first Google flagship phone that ditches Samsung modems entirely in favor of MediaTek.
The separation has been brewing for a while. Last year, the Tensor G5 used in the Pixel 10 series was already manufactured by TSMC rather of Samsung’s foundry, a signal that Google was considering reducing its reliance on the Korean giant. Now,with the Tensor G6,Google is apparently swapping out its Exynos-based modem.
According to Mystic Leaks on X, the Tensor G6 will utilize the MediaTek M90 5G modem. This modem boasts impressive specs, including peak download speeds of 12 Gbps, dual-active 5G support, and satellite connectivity.
Pixel 11 Rumors: Google May Ditch Samsung Modems for MediaTek, Tensor G6 Could Leap to 2nm
recent reports suggest Google is poised to make notable changes with the upcoming Pixel 11, perhaps switching modem suppliers and embracing a cutting-edge manufacturing process for its Tensor G6 chip. These changes could address past criticisms regarding signal stability and battery life, and position the Pixel 11 as a strong competitor in the smartphone market.
Currently, Pixels rely on Samsung’s modems for cellular connectivity. However, the Pixel 11 is rumored to adopt a MediaTek M90 modem, bringing it on par with the capabilities already offered by Samsung. https://www.androidcentral.com/pixel-11-media-tek-modem This shift is particularly noteworthy as modems considerably impact both battery life and signal strength – areas where previous Pixel models have faced scrutiny.
Google previously considered the MediaTek modem for the Pixel 10, ultimately opting for the Samsung Exynos 5400i. However, internal testing and references found in bootloader code suggest the switch to the M90 is much more likely for the Pixel 11. https://www.androidcentral.com/pixel-11-media-tek-modem
Beyond the modem, the Tensor G6 chip itself is expected to see a substantial upgrade in manufacturing. Google is reportedly targeting TSMC’s 2nm process node, potentially giving it an edge over competitors still utilizing 3nm processes.https://www.androidcentral.com/pixel-11-tensor-g6-chip Early projections indicate this could translate to up to a 15% increase in CPU performance and a 30% improvement in power efficiency.
The chip’s architecture is anticipated to include a configuration of one Cortex-X930 prime core, six Cortex-A730 performance cores, and a Cortex-A530 efficiency core. An Imagination triple-core GPU will handle graphics processing. Furthermore, support for LPDDR5X RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, and advanced imaging pipelines will likely enhance Google’s renowned camera capabilities and AI-driven software features. https://www.androidcentral.com/pixel-11-tensor-g6-chip