Google’s Tensor G4 might be just a waiting room for the Tensor G5

The Pixel 8 series’ Tensor G3 chipset marks a significant advancement over previous iterations of Google’s chipset for phones and tablets.

Despite speculation about Google transitioning from Samsung to TSMC on the manufacturing side, a recent report indicates that the Tensor G4 will continue to be produced by Samsung, albeit on an upgraded process.

While improvements are expected, ultimately the new chipset may be more of minor update than a genuine upgrade

Here’s everything we know about Google’s Tensor G4 chipset at this point.

When will the Google Tensor G4 launch?

The Tensor G3 powers Google’s the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which were launched in October 2023.

Therefore, the Tensor G4 is likely to debut alongside the Pixel 9 series, which is expected to be released in October 2024.

We could hear something about it at Google’s I/O developer conference, which takes place on 14 May 2024.

Which phones will use the Google Tensor G4?

Currently, The Tensor G3 only powers Google’s latest flagships. However, it’s highly likely to also be found in the upcoming mid-range Pixel 8a.

It is therefore easy to assume that the Tensor G4 will debut on the Pixel 9 series, something Android Authority suggested in January 2024.

Depending on when they’re released, you might also find the Tensor G4 on the next versions of the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, which both currently use the Tensor G2.

And in 2025, it’s likely to power the mid-range Pixel 9a, assuming one gets released around the middle of the year as usual.

What will the Google Tensor G4 specs and features be?

Still based on the Exynos chipset

Android Authority claims that the Tensor G4 will be based on Samsung’s Exynos 2400, just like its predecessors, and will be closer to the refinement we saw between the G1 and G2, rather than a big leap forward.

Additionally, The Information says that earlier rumours of Google making a brand-new chipset from scratch won’t materialise. Now, this is unlikely to happen until the Tensor G5 arrives on the Pixel 10 series in 2025.

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

Improved heat management and power efficiency

If the Tensor G4 uses Samsung’s 4nm LPP+ node, it could offer better efficiency and thermal management compared to the Tensor G3.

According to a report from Korea, this move will happen and help address past issues with overheating, especially during demanding tasks.

Not a big upgrade compared to Tensor G3

Despite hoping for success in Google’s silicon division with the Tensor G4, recent leaks suggest disappointing performance compared to its predecessor, the Tensor G3.

The leaked Geekbench 6 scores indicate a significant slowdown, with the Tensor G4 even trailing behind the Tensor G3 by 19%. Furthermore, the chipset features an 8-core CPU cluster instead of the Exynos 2400’s 10-core setup, suggesting a significantly less powerful chipset.

It also seems that the Tensor G4 might be lacking improvements in graphical performance.

According to the Geekbench 6 page, both the Tensor G4 and G3 will share the same ARM Immortalis-G715 GPU, leading to speculation that the upcoming Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro might be placeholders for a more substantial launch with the Pixel 10 series in 2025.

Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry

As said before, Google is rumored to switch to TSMC for the Tensor G5 next year, adopting the 3nm process and developing custom CPU and GPU designs. While exciting, this means consumers must wait for a flagship range competitive in hardware and pricing.

A poorly performing Tensor G4 could invite harsh criticism from enthusiasts, potentially impacting Google’s reputation and leading consumers to consider Android phones powered by Qualcomm or MediaTek instead.

That’s all we know about the Tensor G4 at this point. We will update this article when we learn something new.

In the meantime, check out what the Pixel 9 series, where the Tensor G4 is likely to debut, might have to offer.

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