# Google’s Tensor Processors for Pixel 10 and 11: A Major Advancement with TSMC’s 3nm Nodes
Google’s Pixel smartphones have gained a reputation for their software capabilities, but their hardware, particularly the Tensor processors, has sparked discussions. Nevertheless, recent information indicates that Google is set to achieve a notable enhancement in performance and efficiency with the forthcoming Pixel 10 and Pixel 11 models, thanks to its collaboration with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and the implementation of state-of-the-art 3nm process nodes.
## Key Insights
– **Tensor G5 and G6 Chips**: The upcoming Pixel 10 (anticipated in 2025) and Pixel 11 (anticipated in 2026) are likely to include the new Tensor G5 and G6 chips, produced by TSMC utilizing innovative 3nm N3E process nodes.
– **Competing with Apple**: If these insights hold true, Google will leverage the same 3nm technology as Apple’s A18 Pro chip, which is expected to be featured in the iPhone 16 Pro. The Pixel 11 might even adopt a more advanced iteration of the 3nm process for its Tensor G6 chip.
– **Performance and Efficiency Enhancements**: Transitioning to TSMC’s 3nm nodes is anticipated to deliver substantial advancements in performance, energy efficiency, and battery longevity compared to earlier Tensor chips manufactured by Samsung.
## Transition from Samsung to TSMC
In recent years, Google has depended on Samsung for the production of its Tensor chips, which power the Pixel lineup. While these Tensor chips enabled Google to incorporate sophisticated AI and machine learning capabilities into its devices, they have frequently fallen short of rivals like Apple and Qualcomm in terms of sheer performance and power efficiency. Many attribute this discrepancy to Samsung’s outdated manufacturing methods.
However, the arrival of the Tensor G5 and G6 chips signals a change in this pattern. Google is reportedly shifting away from Samsung and partnering with TSMC, a semiconductor powerhouse recognized for its innovative fabrication techniques. TSMC’s 3nm N3E process is set to be a transformative factor, providing superior transistor density, reduced power usage, and enhanced performance compared to Samsung’s 5nm and 4nm processes used for prior Tensor chips.
### Significance of TSMC’s 3nm Process
The 3nm process marks a considerable breakthrough in semiconductor production. As transistors decrease in size, a greater number can be condensed into a specific area, resulting in quicker and more efficient chips. TSMC’s 3nm N3E process is projected to provide up to 15% higher performance and 30% improved power efficiency compared to its 5nm predecessor. This may lead to swifter processing rates, enhanced multitasking abilities, and extended battery life for the Pixel 10 and Pixel 11.
By adopting TSMC’s 3nm nodes, Google is positioning itself to contend more directly with Apple, which has been a frontrunner in chip design with its A-series processors. Apple’s A18 Pro chip, slated to launch with the iPhone 16 Pro, will also utilize TSMC’s 3nm process, suggesting that Google and Apple may find themselves on a more equal footing regarding fabrication technology.
## Custom Cores and AI Innovations
One of the most thrilling prospects of the Tensor G5 and G6 chips is the potential for entirely custom cores. Previous Tensor chips have depended on standard ARM cores, but there are indications that Google is endeavoring to design its own custom CPU and GPU cores for future Tensor iterations. This could enable Google to fine-tune its processors specifically for the Pixel’s distinctive software capabilities, including its AI-enhanced photography features and voice recognition functionalities.
Custom cores could also allow Google to distinguish its chips from rivals such as Qualcomm and Apple, both of which already employ custom designs in their Snapdragon and A-series processors, respectively. By aligning the hardware with its software, Google could reveal new levels of performance and efficiency, especially in AI and machine learning tasks, which continue to gain prominence in contemporary smartphones.
## Implications for Pixel Users
For Pixel users, the transition to TSMC’s 3nm nodes and the introduction of custom cores may lead to several concrete advantages:
1. **Enhanced Performance**: The Tensor G5 and G6 chips are projected to deliver quicker processing speeds, seamless multitasking, and superior gaming performance compared to earlier Tensor models. This could elevate the competitiveness of the Pixel 10 and Pixel 11 alongside flagship offerings from Apple and Samsung.
2. **Improved Battery Life**: One of the primary criticisms of prior Pixel models has been their battery performance, which has often been inferior to that of competitors. The move to TSMC’s 3nm process should yield chips that are more power-efficient, resulting in longer battery life, even during demanding activities such as gaming, video streaming, and AI processing.
3. **Enhanced
