Highlights

• Google Pixel 9 likely to feature a semi-custom Tensor G4 chip.
• The chip, co-designed with Samsung’s System LSI division, signals continuity rather than major change.
• Full independent SoC development by Google might be slated for Pixel 10.

As Google’s Pixel 8 launch inches closer, murmurs about the subsequent model, the Pixel 9, have begun to emerge.

Notably, insider sources have informed Android Authority that the chipset in the forthcoming Pixel 9 may not be as revolutionary as some had hoped.

Tensor G4 Chip: A Cautious Step Forward

The anticipated Tensor G4 chip, set to be integrated into the Pixel 9, is described as “semi-custom”, having been reportedly co-engineered with Samsung’s System LSI division.

This suggests a continuation of the Google-Samsung partnership in chipset design, rather than the major shift towards Google’s independent SoC, similar to Apple, that some had anticipated.

The initial predictions indicated a more substantial upgrade; however, this recent revelation points to a more conservative improvement in the Pixel 9’s hardware.

Comparing Past Iterations

Historically, the evolution from the original Tensor chip in the Pixel 6 to the Tensor G2 chip in the Pixel 7 was discernible, but not groundbreaking.

With the current information, it’s plausible that a similar trajectory of progress will be observed between the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9.

Google’s Long-Term Vision

At the heart of Google’s long-term vision is a move to create bespoke SoCs for its devices.
This strategy would enable closer integration between the software and hardware components, since all development would occur under Google’s roof.

Such synchronisation could result in more targeted designs tailored to specific functionalities, particularly in areas where Google’s Pixel phones excel, such as advanced artificial intelligence and image processing.

Challenges Ahead

Nevertheless, the path to designing bespoke chipsets is neither swift nor straightforward. It demands a substantial investment of time and resources.

This might explain Google’s continued collaboration with Samsung, a tech giant with considerable expertise in silicon development, for its recent Pixel phones.

FAQs

Ques) What is the anticipated chipset for the Google Pixel 9?

The upcoming Pixel 9 is expected to sport a semi-custom Tensor G4 chip, marking a collaboration with Samsung’s System LSI division.

Ques) How significant is the chipset upgrade in the Pixel 9 compared to its predecessors?

Current insights point to a modest upgrade, reminiscent of the transition from the original Tensor to the Tensor G2 chip.

Ques) When might Google transition to a fully independent SoC for its Pixel phones?

Speculations suggest that Google’s endeavour to design its own SoC might materialise by the launch of the Pixel 10 in 2025.

Ques) Why isn’t Google introducing a major chipset overhaul in the Pixel 9?

Developing a custom chipset is resource-intensive. Google’s collaboration with Samsung enables the tech giant to maintain quality while gradually working towards its independent SoC goals.