Google May Use TSMC-made Tensor Chips from Pixel 10 Series

Google has made strategic moves to advance its in-house Tensor chips, crucial for powering its future Pixel smartphones. The company is transitioning away from Samsung's manufacturing services, which have been instrumental since the launch of the Pixel 6 series. Instead, Google has forged a significant partnership with TSMC, a leading Taiwanese chipmaker, to produce the Tensor chips destined for its forthcoming Pixel models.

This partnership signifies a shift towards utilizing TSMC's expertise for the Tensor processors from the upcoming Pixel 10 series onwards. The collaboration between Google and TSMC is set to span three to five years, pending official approval. This period will likely cover the production of Tensor chips for Pixel phones ranging from the Pixel 10 to the Pixel 14 series.

Technical Innovations in the Tensor G5

The upcoming Tensor G5 chip, codenamed "Laguna," promises enhancements in both performance and efficiency. It is expected to feature a robust architecture comprising one Cortex-X4 core for high-performance tasks, five Cortex-A725 cores for intermediate operations, and two Cortex-A520 cores focused on maximizing energy efficiency.

Google's primary aim with the Tensor G5 revolves around its proprietary TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), designed to bolster on-device machine learning capabilities. This includes improvements in voice typing, photo editing, and other AI-driven tasks, reducing dependence on cloud-based processing. Moreover, the chip will benefit from TSMC's innovative InFO-POP packaging technology, which is anticipated to offer a slimmer design and superior heat management.

Further distinguishing the Tensor G5, Google has opted to internalize the design of several key components, moving away from Samsung-supplied parts. The chip's image signal processor now bears Google's signature, while the display controller is provided by VeriSilicon. Additional components, including the video codec and modem, are sourced from Chips&Media and MediaTek, respectively, signaling a comprehensive overhaul in the chip's design and manufacturing ecosystem.

Google's strategic partnership with TSMC marks a pivotal evolution in the development and production of its Tensor chips. This collaboration not only signifies Google's commitment to enhancing its Pixel smartphones with state-of-the-art processors but also reflects a broader trend of tech giants seeking more control over their hardware ecosystems. As Google prepares to integrate TSMC-manufactured Tensor chips into its Pixel lineup, starting with the Pixel 10 series, the tech community eagerly anticipates the performance and innovation these future devices will deliver.

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