Leaks about the next generation of Google’s in-house chips, the Tensor G5 and Tensor G6, have started surfacing. These chips, which are expected to power the upcoming Pixel smartphones, offer a glimpse into what could be the most significant performance and efficiency upgrades in Google’s lineup to date.
Tensor Chips
Google introduced its custom Tensor chips in 2021 with the Pixel 6 series, aiming to optimize hardware and software integration for improved machine learning, camera performance, and AI tasks. Since then, each iteration of the Tensor processor has improved upon the previous generation. The Tensor G5 and Tensor G6 are expected to continue this trend, with major changes in core architecture, power efficiency, and computational capabilities.
Google Tensor G5
The Tensor G5 is rumoured to power the Pixel 10 and is expected to bring a more powerful yet efficient CPU and GPU combination. According to the leaks, the Tensor G5 will feature a 1+5+2 CPU cluster configuration. This includes one Arm Cortex-X4 prime core for handling the most demanding tasks, five Cortex-A725 performance cores to manage everyday processes, and two Cortex-A520 efficiency cores dedicated to background tasks and power-saving functions.
This setup marks a shift from the 1+4+4 configuration seen in previous Tensor chips, emphasizing more performance cores for better multitasking and intensive application handling. The use of Arm Cortex-X4 as the prime core is a significant upgrade, offering higher clock speeds and better thermal management. This will likely translate into faster processing and better overall efficiency in real-world usage, particularly in scenarios that require heavy computing power, such as gaming or video editing.
The GPU in the Tensor G5 is expected to be the Arm Mali-G715, which offers robust graphical performance for mobile gaming and graphic-intensive tasks. Coupled with the CPU upgrades, this GPU should provide smoother frame rates and more efficient power consumption during high-demand tasks, which is particularly important for users who rely on their smartphones for entertainment.
Another key improvement with the Tensor G5 is in AI and machine learning capabilities. Google has traditionally emphasized AI-driven features in its Pixel lineup, such as on-device voice recognition, live translation, and computational photography. The Tensor G5 is expected to build upon these features with enhanced AI accelerators that can handle more complex tasks in real time. This should improve features like Google Assistant, speech-to-text, and camera-related AI functions like Super Res Zoom and Magic Eraser.
Google Tensor G6
While the Tensor G5 is expected to power the Pixel 10, leaks have also revealed some early details about the Tensor G6, which will likely be the heart of the Pixel 11. The Tensor G6 is rumoured to adopt an even more powerful 1+6 core structure, making a jump from the 1+5 configuration of the G5. This suggests that Google is focusing on increasing the number of performance cores to further enhance multitasking and high-performance applications.
The Tensor G6 will reportedly be built on TSMC’s N3P process, a cutting-edge fabrication technology that allows for better power efficiency and performance gains compared to previous manufacturing nodes. This switch to TSMC’s advanced node could be critical in ensuring that the Tensor G6 delivers not just higher performance but also significant gains in battery life. Lower power consumption would be especially beneficial for users who prioritize battery longevity or those who frequently use their devices for high-intensity tasks like gaming or video streaming.
Camera performance is another area expected to see improvements with the Tensor G6. Google’s computational photography prowess has long been one of the standout features of Pixel devices, and the G6 will likely build upon this legacy. The chip is rumoured to support cameras up to 200 MP, which will allow for higher resolution imaging and more detailed photos, along with zero shutter lag capabilities that can make capturing fast-moving subjects easier and clearer. This would be a significant leap for mobile photography, making the Pixel 11 a compelling choice for photography enthusiasts.
What These Leaks Mean for Pixel Devices
The leaked specifications of the Tensor G5 and G6 chips indicate that Google is taking significant steps to enhance the performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities of its Pixel devices. By focusing on a powerful CPU configuration with more performance cores, along with better integration of AI and machine learning, these chips are likely to deliver faster, more intuitive user experiences.
For everyday users, this means that Pixel devices powered by the Tensor G5 and G6 will handle tasks more smoothly, whether it’s switching between apps, running complex AI processes, or gaming. The improvements in efficiency will also likely extend battery life, even under heavy workloads. The enhanced AI features could mean better photography, faster voice recognition, and more intelligent automation features.
For enthusiasts, the support for higher-resolution cameras and advanced GPU performance will be particularly appealing. Features like 200 MP camera sensors and zero shutter lag could redefine mobile photography standards, while the Arm Mali-G715 GPU should enable better gaming experiences with higher frame rates and enhanced graphical fidelity.
Conclusion
The leaked specs for Google’s Tensor G5 and Tensor G6 chips point to exciting advancements in mobile processing technology. With significant upgrades in CPU configuration, AI capabilities, and camera support, these processors will likely make Google’s upcoming Pixel devices even more competitive in the smartphone market. Whether it’s improved multitasking, better battery efficiency, or cutting-edge AI-driven features, the Tensor G5 and G6 are poised to elevate the Pixel experience to new heights.
Arthur is a senior member of the communications team who has worked at several well-known companies over the past 10 years. As a writer with many years of experience in the technology sector, focusing on reviewing mobile phones and accessories, he has written about many products or has been hands-on with them at some point
