Google Reportedly Testing MediaTek M90 Modem for Upcoming Tensor G6 and Pixel 11 Series

Highlights

• Google is internally testing the MediaTek M90 5G modem for its upcoming Tensor G6 and Pixel 11 series.
• The modem offers 12Gbps peak speeds, dual 5G SIM support, satellite connectivity and claims 18% lower power consumption.
• Codenamed “Malibu,” the Tensor G6 may use TSMC’s advanced 2nm process.

Speculation about the Pixel 11 series has already started surfacing online. The upcoming Tensor G6 chip powering the next Pixel flagship is reportedly being tested with a MediaTek modem, marking a potential shift from Samsung’s long-running partnership. Here’s what we know.

Google May Replace Samsung Modem with MediaTek M90

According to a report from tipster Mystic Leaks, Google has begun “early internal testing” of the MediaTek M90 5G modem for use in the Tensor G6 and Pixel 11. A command line screenshot from the report shows the baseband version listed as “a900a”, while the device bootloader is codenamed “spacecraft,” a change from the Pixel 10’s “deepspace.”

This leak aligns with earlier reports from late 2024, which claimed that Google might switch to MediaTek modems for the Pixel 10 lineup.  However, the Pixel 10 ultimately retained Samsung’s Exynos 5400i.

More On MediaTek M90 Modem

Unveiled at MWC 2025, the MediaTek M90 5G modem features impressive specifications, including 12Gbps peak downlink speeds and dual 5G SIM dual-active support with dual data capabilities. MediaTek also highlights the use of AI models to improve both power efficiency and device performance.

Additionally, the modem includes satellite connectivity support, which is essential for maintaining Pixel’s emergency communication capabilities.

While MediaTek hasn’t disclosed the process node used for the M90, the Samsung Exynos 5400i currently found in Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 devices is built on a 4nm process. MediaTek said that engineering samples of the M90 would be available in the second half of 2025.

The Exynos 5400i has largely resolved the overheating issues seen in earlier Pixel generations. However, MediaTek claims that the M90 modem delivers up to 18% lower power consumption, which could help extend battery life and improve efficiency.

If Google moves forward with this transition, it would further signify the company’s gradual shift away from Samsung’s foundry, aligning more closely with TSMC for its chipset production.

Tensor G6 Details and Codename

Internally, the Tensor G6 carries the codename “Malibu.” Leaks from Google’s “gChips” division in October 2024 revealed ongoing development of both the Tensor G5 and G6. At that time, the G6 was expected to use TSMC’s N3P process with a 1+6 core configuration.

However, more recent reports from June 2025 suggest that Google might instead adopt TSMC’s advanced 2nm process for the Tensor G6.

FAQs

Q1. Is Google switching from Samsung to MediaTek modems for the Pixel 11?

Answer. Yes, Google is reportedly conducting early internal testing of the MediaTek M90 5G modem for the Tensor G6 and Pixel 11 series, potentially replacing Samsung’s Exynos 5400i.

Q2. What are the key features of the MediaTek M90 modem?

Answer. The M90 offers 12Gbps peak downlink speeds, dual 5G SIM dual-active support, satellite connectivity, and up to 18% lower power consumption compared to previous modems.

Q3. What process will the Tensor G6 chip use?

Answer. Recent reports suggest Google may adopt TSMC’s advanced 2nm process for the Tensor G6, moving away from Samsung’s foundry and aligning more closely with TSMC.

Also Read –

https://www.mymobileindia.com/google-pixel-10s-tensor-g5-shows-better-heat-control-but-still-trails-rivals-in-performance-tests/

https://www.mymobileindia.com/pixel-10-series-a-quick-before-launch-roundup-of-everything-we-know-about-the-series-so-far/