We know Google is working on a big, fully-custom Tensor chip, but a new report sheds some light on Tensor G4, which will show up in 2024’s Pixel 9 handsets.
As previously reported, Google Tensor’s third iteration is expected to be quite an upgrade over its predecessors. With a new layout, improvements to Samsung’s 4nm manufacturing process, and apparent upgrades to cooling, Samsung’s Tensor chip could be much better. However, the following year’s upgrade will not be as significant.
Google Pixel 9’s Tensor G4 will not be a significant upgrade, according to Android Authority citing a “Google insider”.
It will only be a slight improvement over Tensor G3. While Tensor G3 is called Zuma, Tensor G4 is called Zuma Pro.” This chip is still made with Samsung’s help and reportedly uses the “Ripcurrent 24” development board, an upgrade from Tensor G3’s “Ripcurrent.” For now, it’s hard to say what’s new, but the codenames certainly suggest a relatively modest refresh.
Sadly, this is another minor upgrade, and one needs to wait for Pixel 10 which might get the fully custom-made Google chip.
As a report earlier this year revealed, Google’s fully custom, TSMC-made chip was delayed from 2024 to 2025 after originally scheduled for 2024. According to the latest report, the chip’s codename is “Laguna Beach,” and its baseboard is “ChallengerDeep.”
We’re still waiting for Tensor G3’s actual launch, so this is all still a ways off. Compared to past models, the new chip looks pretty promising and is expected in Google’s Pixel 8 series, which will be unveiled on October 4.
