What you need to know

• Google's Tensor G4, which is expected to power the Pixel 9 series, appeared during the series' AnTuTu benchmark test.
• From the test, the chip will use an ARMv9-A core architecture but may only give the Pixel 9 trio a "slight" power boost over the Pixel 8 and the Tensor G3.
• q1The trio scored 1.07 million, 1.14 million, and 1.17 million points for the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL, respectively.

Slowly but surely, more information about the Pixel 9 series is coming to light, and the latest leaks involve Google's 2024 chipset.

Rozetked (Russian) spotted the Pixel 9 trio undergoing the hurdles of the AnTuTu benchmark test (via Android Police). Running the Tensor G4, the base Pixel 9 scored 1.07 million points. The middle Pixel 9 Pro achieved 1.14 million points, while the Pixel 9 Pro XL reached 1.17 million points.

As the publication notes, these numbers ma]\y seem high, but they're only slightly higher than the base Pixel 8 at 900,000. This is likely due to Google's minimal changes, as the Tensor G4 features an ARMv9-A core architecture.

Simply put, the chip offers one Cortex-A4 at 3.1GHz, three Cortex-A720 cores at 2.6GHz, and four Cortex-A520 cores at 1.95GHz.

It doesn't seem like we're in for a major power boost for the Pixel series with the Tensor G4. However, it's worth noting that these early test numbers aren't indicative of the Pixel 9's final release strength.

Things could get better (or stay the same), so we'll have to wait until after the summer.

For context, last year's Tensor G3 features one Cortex-X3 core clocked at 2.91 GHz, four Cortex-A715 performance cores (2.37 GHz), and four Cortex-A510 cores (1.7 GHz). Google's chip features one more core dedicated to efficiency, however, it fell short of Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 in terms of speed for its performance and prime cores. Moreover, the chip still gets warm pretty quickly and it's bad news for gamers as their FPS will continuously drop during long play sessions.

AI was what Google banked on — and there's no reason why that wouldn't continue to be the case this year.

It's been rumored since last year that the Tensor G4 might not be a major powerhouse over the G3. The chip is supposedly using the codename "Zuma Pro," which builds upon the G3's "Zuma" name. Speculation pointed toward a more minimal upgrade as Google reportedly scrapped its entirely new processor, codename "Redondo," due to sharp delays.

Other reports stated the chip will lean on Samsung's third-generation SF4P 4nm process. This, again, is only slightly better than the Tensor G3's SF4 process. Elsewhere, the entire Pixel 9 series leaked in live photos just hours before Google's I/O 2024 keynote event in May.

For some of us, the only things that maters when it comes to a new phone is the raw hardware performance. I agree, just not in the same way you probably think I do. That's why Google's Tensor G3 is, in my opinion, the best phone chip on the market right now.

It's not the fastest, not by a longshot. Chips from Qualcomm and MediaTek are faster or have a better GPU, and that's not saying anything about the iPhone which ships using a SoC that's faster than a lot of laptops. But being fast isn't everything.

I think it all comes down to what the chip is supposed to be doing, and the Tensor G3 has a big lead there. Its hardware is specialized to do some very specific things when it comes to processing what Google thinks is most important.

When you also write software that can take advantage of these things in ways that just don't work on other hardware, you end up with something different. And maybe just a little bit better.

I'm not a big fan of Google's phones; the last two Pixel devices I've used were a bit disappointing, if I'm being honest about it. I'm also not a fan of Qualcomm, MediaTek, or Apple though. I'm a fan of consumers and users just like you and me. Companies should be doing more to earn our money.

I can't deny that Google has a vision, though. You may not agree with it, or I may not agree with it, but Google has shown exactly what it thinks is important when it comes to the software for a phone, both inside the operating system itself and its apps.

The next logical step was to make that software work best on typical phone hardware. Here's where Google steps away from the mainstream.

Inside the chip in your phone, there are several processors, and some of them are designed to do specific things. By designing some of those co-processors in a specific way and then writing software to take advantage of that unique set of instructions, Google's own phones have an advantage that no amount of raw power can beat.

Even Apple's new A17 Pro and its seemingly unlimited amount of horsepower can't run Google's own MOL and AI algorithms as well as the Pixel 8 and its relatively sluggish Tensor G3. Qualcomm and the rest really aren't even playing the same game. Since Google feels that these AI and ML algorithms are what's really important, the Pixel 8 wins by default.

Except that it doesn't in the real world. But I think Google finally understands that.

Ask yourself when was the last time you bought something because it does one thing better than anything else, yet it is a bit mediocre when it comes to everything else. The answer is probably never.

This matters even more when it comes to something so personal and necessary, like a phone. In 2023, you have to have a smartphone to do even simple things like pay the taxes on your car, so you obviously want the best one you can get.

You're probably going to look at the "big picture" when you buy your next phone, and whatever you decide, being the best when it comes to Google's unique AI and ML routines isn't going to be part of that equation. No matter how cool the AI things are. I'm a total nerd when it comes to stuff like building a "special" chip to run AI software, but even I won't buy a phone based on just that.

This is where I think Google needs to step it up and make the rest of the phone work as well as its new AI stuff does. And I think Google knows it.

The Tensor G3 and the Pixel 8, especially the Pro, are the first of a new breed of Pixel products: one where Google acknowledges its own shortcomings and begins to correct them, one piece at a time. It's starting with the Tensor G3 and its ability to make Google magic happen so well is the right path.

We've seen it before — at one time the iPhone seemed unbeatable because Apple's tight integration of hardware and software meant a truly optimized experience. Android simply lagged behind. As much as I hate to see it, I think we're going to see Google do the same thing until a Pixel is the best option out there, and having the best chip will mean a lot more than it does today.

What you need to know

• Rumors suggest Google's Tensor G3 chip could feature a FO-WLP packaging method out of Samsung's Foundry.
• The method is said to encourage power efficiency while also reducing heat generation for the Pixel phones.
• Google's Tensor chip hasn't had the best reputation, and the company is reportedly looking to move to TSMC for the Tensor G4 before next year's Pixel.

There might be a little more in store for Google's upcoming third-generation chip inside its next smartphone launch.

Rumored by Tech_Reve on X, Google's own Tensor G3 chip might feature FO-WLP packaging, one of the first to do so out of Samsung's Foundry (via 9to5Google). The new method, which stands for "Fan-out Wafer-level," would encourage power efficiency and reduce heat generated from the device.

It was previously expected that Google would continue to rely on Samsung to craft the semi-custom chips. However, certain aspects still remain uncertain. That said, a change to the Tensor G3's core layout is expected as Google tries to work some more power into the chip.

Additionally, there was speculation that the company would continue to feature the same modem as the Tensor G2 in the upcoming iteration.

Google's own chip has had its (many) faults since its debut, ranging from efficiency problems to overheating. Most notable is the slight rework given to the Tensor G2 chip for the Pixel 7a, where Google decided to switch up the packaging method for the chip in its most recent budget phone, making the device run severely hotter and slower.

There is a possibility that these problems will go away — or, at least, not be such a problem in the future. Rumors in July suggested Google may possibly drop Samsung for its Tensor G4 chip, which would likely power the Pixel 9 series. Google would go from relying on Samsung Semiconductors to piggybacking off TSMC.

A change like this would greatly benefit the company's adequate Tensor chip, as Qualcomm's shift to TSMC was like night and day when comparing the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1. Google also has plans to fully produce its Tensor chip in-house by 2025.

We have three weeks until Google reveals the Pixel 8 series during its fall event on October 4. The wait's not long now until we see how these changes to the Tensor G3 impact the next Pixel series.

What you need to know

• Google's own Tensor G4 reportedly had been delayed due to multiple reasons.
• The search giant is aiming to launch its first fully in-house made processor, the Tensor G5, with the Pixel 10 series.
• Google could likely ditch Samsung Semiconductors in favor of TSMC to make Tensor chips in the future.

Google was late to the party when making its chips. OEM makers like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei were early adopters. Though Tensor chips are custom designed by Google, they are still based on Samsung's Exynos models.

A new report from The Information (via Android Authority) reveals that Google is indeed working on new custom chipsets for Pixel phones, one of which was apparently delayed, according to persons familiar with the matter who told The Information. The chipset in regard is codenamed "Redondo," for the alleged Tensor G4 that was believed to power the next iteration of Pixel phones, the Pixel 9 series.

The Information quoted a former Google executive claiming that challenges between the American and Indian teams and a high personnel turnover rate brought on the difficulty in building the chip. They further claimed that this wasn't the first time the search giant canceled Tensor chips; it had seen a couple of them in the last two years.

This move resulted in Google sticking to Samsung-made semi-custom chipsets for the next year's Pixel phones. However, since the Redondo chipset is not seeing the light of day, Google has other plans with yet another processor codenamed "Laguna," which is said to be built on a 3nm process and presumably named Tensor G5, aiming to release in 2025.

The Tensor G5 would have several advantages when it lands on Pixel phones, as Google will have full authority to mold the chipset per its preferences. That said, Arm-designed CPUs and GPUs will likely stay dependent on other chipset makers.

The company that makes current-generation Tensor chipsets — Samsung Semiconductor — will likely be ousted in favor of TSMC for future Tensor chipset fabrication.

We saw this happen with Qualcomm last year as they used Samsung Semiconductor to make the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 — a chipset known for relatively poor performance and overheating issues — then switched to TSMC for the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 later in the year. The differences were huge, and it's entirely possible that future Tensor processors will see the same kinds of improvements.

As mentioned earlier, this move means Google could ideally make its own Tensor with modern and higher power efficiency chipsets that power the future Pixel phones, including foldables.

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It's no secret that the foldable market here in North America is a bit sparse, to say the least. Really, your only options are either the Galaxy Z Fold 4 or Galaxy Z Flip 5, as Microsoft's Surface Duo 2 is out of stock from pretty much everywhere. Even then, the Duo 2 is a different type of foldable phone, whereas Google's rumored Pixel Fold is setting its sights to compete with the Galaxy Z Fold 4.

Leading up to the rumored announcement at Google I/O 2023, we're continuing to learn more thanks to some pretty impressive leaks. The latest of which, practically revealed everything there is to know about what the Pixel Fold will bring to the market. For the time being, I'm going to focus more on the underlying specs, as opposed to looking at how the form factor might play well in Google's favor.

Tensor G2 performance is good enough

In the latest batch of leaks, it appears as though Google is satisfied with using its Tensor G2 processor, as opposed to introducing an entirely new chipset. Keep in mind, this is the same SoC found in the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, while it's also likely to be powering the rumored Pixel 7a.

If these rumors are to be believed, should Google have used the Pixel Fold to launch its next-generation Tensor chip? The question is a bit more complicated than it might first appear.

Ever since the original Tensor SoC debuted with the Pixel 6 lineup, it was immediately apparent that Google isn't trying to take on Qualcomm or Apple Silicon. Instead, this is designed to harness the power of AI and Machine Learning (ML), while still providing a "good enough" experience in terms of power.

With the Tensor G2, there weren't many improvements made compared to what we've seen from the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 powering many of the best Android phones. Again, Google focused on AI and ML improvements in an area where the "Pixel" branding holds quite a bit of water; the cameras. 

Google's ability to harness the power of on-device ML and AI in order to improve the cameras is one of the things that Google does best. It's part of the reason why the company used the same 12MP camera across multiple device launches, as the post-processing was where it mattered for many.

This trend has only continued following the inclusion of a 50MP main camera in the Pixel 6 and now the Pixel 7. Instead of opting for a different sensor, Google has improved the various camera software features. This includes introducing things like Magic Eraser, Real Tone, Photo Unblur, and more. Let alone the fact that Night Mode continues to be improved to provide even better photos of the constellations above you.

If these rumors are to be believed, the Pixel Fold will feature a 48MP main, wide-angle camera, a 10.8MP ultrawide lens, and a 10.8MP telephoto sensor. This is almost the exact same setup as is found on the Pixel 7 Pro, giving users flexibility between three different sensors, in addition to the various software improvements.

Where the concerns are

That's not to say that there won't be some who think that Google is making the wrong decision here. For one, the Pixel Fold would be the perfect opportunity to launch and introduce the Tensor G3, provided that it's ready for primetime. There will also be those who might complain that the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro will cost hundreds of dollars less, but will sport a newer chipset than the Fold.

Then there are those that will notice that the Pixel 7, with its $599 retail price, is powered by the same processor as the (rumored) $1799 Pixel Fold. Even the Pixel 7 Pro retails for $900 less than what the Fold is rumored to be released at, regardless of whether Google throws in a Pixel Watch for free or not. 

Another potential concern with the Tensor G2 is the ongoing overheating problems that have been plaguing users. It was a problem with the original Tensor chip, and it continues to be a frustration with the Tensor G2. 

Presumably, the Tensor G3 would make strides in that department, potentially lowering concerns about your foldable phone overheating. Both the Tensor and Tensor G2 are built on the 5nm process, while the latest chips from the competition have moved onto the 4nm process. In doing so, we're seeing better performance and incredible improvements when it comes to efficiency. 

The argument can definitely be made that the Tensor G2 in a Pixel Fold won't suffer from overheating issues. This is simply because it will have more room due to the much larger chassis, giving Google space to improve the overall thermals. 

But as pointed out by Michael Hicks, there's still a chance that the Tensor G2 won't be able to handle the dual display setup. Let alone trying to play games or multi-task when using the larger inner display.

It's a foldable phone with Pixel cameras

As someone who is all for more competition, I couldn't be more excited for another foldable phone to become available in the U.S. I also won't be shocked if the excitement wears off as soon as the Galaxy Z Fold 5 debuts sometime later this year.

Google isn't likely to position the Pixel Fold as a direct competitor to Samsung. One UI offers a much more refined software experience, complete with different tweaks to improve how apps look and work on a foldable phone. And that's not to mention Samsung DeX, of which it doesn't seem as though the Pixel Fold will offer a similar desktop-like interface.

Instead, Google is going to lean hard on the camera experience, focusing on the total of five different cameras being built-in. There's a very good chance the Pixel Fold will outperform the Galaxy Z Fold 4, and unless Samsung does something drastic, it could be better than the Fold 5.

I'll leave you with something that our own Jerry Hildenbrand said, summing up the Pixel Fold perfectly:

"Google is gonna come out and say this is a folding phone with the Pixel camera so you should buy it."

And that's just fine with me. 

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What you need to know

• New renders reveal clear case designs for the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.
• The cases appear to corroborate previously leaked renders of both devices.
• The Pixel 8 series is expected to be teased at Google I/O 2023.

Leaks of the Google Pixel 8 series continue to paint a picture of the upcoming flagships, and the latest appears to confirm what we can expect from the design.

The latest leak comes from SlashLeaks, which showcases alleged designs of Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro protective cases. The cases appear to be transparent silicone or TPU cases housed on both the Google Pixel 8 models.

The cases match with the earlier renders and design aesthetics of the Google Pixel 8 and the Pro variants, which were revealed last month. These protective cases further establish that Google is opting for slightly more rounded corners on both models compared to the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 7 devices.

Renderings of the phones inside the cases show off the updated camera housing for the Pixel 8 Pro, which includes a triple camera setup enclosed in a single pill-shaped design. The Pixel 8 case renders also corroborate the Pixel 8 design leak from the past, although it doesn't look drastically different from the Pixel 7.

Aside from these case renders, the other rumored specifications of the upcoming Pixel 8 series include the next-gen Google Tensor G3 chipset powering both phones. Google may also ditch the curved display for the Pixel 8 Pro this year, which has been a design aspect exclusive to the Pro Pixel phones. A recent rumor also indicates Google is opting for a smaller form factor with a smaller display on the standard Pixel 8 model.

With the slow increase of Pixel 8 leaks, we're expecting the devices to make a brief appearance at Google I/O 2023 next to the new Pixel 7a and the company's first foldable device, the Google Pixel Fold.

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What you need to know

• Google is said to be working on the next-gen Tensor chip already.
• A new report indicates that it is codenamed "Zuma," co-developed by Samsung.
• The alleged SoC to power new Pixel devices, reportedly codenamed "Shiba" and "Husky."

Google's Tensor chip debuted with the Pixel 6 series last year. The successor, Tensor G2, made it to the Pixel 7 series with several performance improvements. The chipsets have always been co-developed by Samsung to take on the competition dominated by Qualcomm and MediaTek. A new report now hints at the possible Tensor G3 chipset that will likely power the next-gen Pixel 8 series, which will also be co-developed by Samsung.

According to WinFuture, Google is working on two new Pixel devices for next year, reportedly codenamed "Shiba" and "Husky." At the same time, the report implies that it is still speculative whether the said devices are indeed next year's Pixel smartphones. But what's affirmative is the fact that they are using a new SoC and the expected configuration of the said devices corroborates it furthermore.

These new devices will run on Android 14 and next-gen Tensor chip co-developed by Google and Samsung. The new chip is said to be in the works and is codenamed "Zuma." While the details on the new chipset are still speculative, the WinFuture report says that it will use the same modem as seen on the Tensor G2. 

It means the said SoC incorporates the 5G G5300 modem developed by Samsung. It is further believed to be the same one included on Samsung's upcoming Exynos 2300 SoC. Since it is co-developed by Google, users can expect all the Artificial Integelliance and Machine Learning prowess which we have witnessed on recent Pixel devices like the Pixel 7.

Additional details surfaced about these upcoming "Shiba" and "Husky" devices. The former is said to be featuring a Full HD resolution of 2268x1080. And the latter equips a better display portraying 2822x1344 pixels resolution. Both models are believed to feature at least 12GB of RAM, which is a promising parameter. But as these devices are still quite a ways into the future, take the news with a grain of salt for now.

As mentioned earlier, the codenamed devices could or could not be the alleged Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro devices, as the report concludes that it is purely based on speculation. 

Nevertheless, these are still interesting details, and the alleged SoC might make its way to Pixel devices to take on the best Android smartphones that start coming within a couple of months as we venture into 2024.