Google Shifts Tensor G5 Production to TSMC, Leak Confirms Enhanced Specs for Pixel 10 Series

Google’s ambitious plans for its next-generation Tensor G5 chips are becoming clearer with recent leaks. The upcoming Pixel 10 and 10 Pro smartphones are set to feature these advanced chips, marking a significant shift in Google’s chip manufacturing strategy. Unlike previous Tensor chips, which relied on Samsung’s expertise and foundry, the Tensor G5 will be fabricated by TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company). This change promises enhanced performance and efficiency for Google’s flagship devices.

Confirmation from Leaked Documents

The confirmation of this strategic move comes from a shipping manifest obtained by Android Authority. The document details the import of a sample Tensor G5 chip into India, shedding light on several key aspects of the chip:

Part Number: G313-09488-00

Product Categories: Integrated Circuit, System on a Chip (SoC)

Manufacturer: TSMC

Codename: LGA (Laguna Beach), believed to be associated with the Tensor G5

The shipping manifest also reveals that TSMC’s InFO POP (Integrated Fan-Out Package on Package) technology is being used for the Tensor G5, a packaging method exclusive to TSMC. This further solidifies the speculation that TSMC is the chosen manufacturer for the new Tensor chips.

Enhanced Features and Capabilities

The leaked document also indicates that the Tensor G5 has passed a system-level test (SLT), confirming its basic functionalities. Notably, the chip includes 16GB of POP (package-on-package) RAM, suggesting that the upcoming Pixel 10 series might offer similar memory configurations. This upgrade could significantly boost the performance and multitasking capabilities of the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro.

Strategic Implications

Google’s decision to switch from Samsung to TSMC for the fabrication of its Tensor G5 chips reflects a strategic move towards leveraging TSMC’s advanced semiconductor manufacturing technologies. TSMC is renowned for its cutting-edge fabrication processes, which could result in more efficient and powerful chips for Google’s future smartphones.

Consumer Considerations

For consumers considering an upgrade to a Pixel phone, this leak provides a compelling reason to wait for the Pixel 10 series, expected to launch in 2025. The Pixel 10 is likely to feature the more powerful and customized Tensor G5 chip, designed to offer optimized performance and a more refined user experience.

Conclusion

The switch to TSMC for the Tensor G5 chip marks a significant milestone for Google in its quest to enhance the performance and capabilities of its Pixel smartphones. As the leaks suggest, the Tensor G5 promises to bring substantial improvements in processing power and efficiency, making the upcoming Pixel 10 series highly anticipated. This strategic shift underscores Google’s commitment to innovation and its focus on delivering superior technology to its users.

Source @ androidauthority