For years, Google's Pixel smartphones have impressed with their camera capabilities, software experience and AI features. But when it comes to raw processing power, they've consistently lagged behind rivals like Apple's iPhones and Samsung's Galaxy S line. That could soon change, according to a report in Chinese publication CTEE, shared via 9to5Google.
The report states that Google is planning a major leap forward in chip technology with its upcoming Tensor G6 processor — the chip expected to power the Pixel 11 series.
The tech giant is set to adopt TSMC's cutting-edge 2-nanometre manufacturing process, which could be a major upgrade.
A History Of Lagging Behind
Since introducing its in-house Tensor chips in 2021 with the Pixel 6, Google has been playing catch-up in terms of performance. The first-generation Tensor and its successor, the Tensor G2 (in the Pixel 7), were built on Samsung's 5nm process. Even the newer Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8, while updated in design, stuck to the same 5nm architecture — by which time Qualcomm had already shifted to 4nm with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
The latest iteration, Tensor G4, found in the Pixel 9, still doesn't quite measure up. In benchmark tests, the Pixel 9 posted scores of 1,758 (single-core) and 4,594 (multi-core) on Geekbench. Compare that to Samsung's Galaxy S24, which runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and notched 2,235 and 6,922 in the same tests. Apple's iPhone 15, powered by the A16 Bionic, delivered even higher scores at 2,518 (single-core) and 6,179 (multi-core).
In terms of graphical performance, the Pixel 9 reached 55.71 frames per second in the WildLife Unlimited benchmark, well below the Galaxy S24's 120.4 fps and the iPhone 15's 72.1 fps.
Turning The Corner?
The shift to TSMC's 2nm process could be a game-changer for Google. The report suggests that the Tensor G5, likely destined for the Pixel 10, will be produced on a 3nm process by TSMC — the same foundry used by Apple for its most advanced chips. But it's the jump to 2nm with the G6 that signals a more aggressive performance strategy.
Google might even be ahead of Qualcomm in this race. Reports claim that Qualcomm's next major chip, the Snapdragon 8 “Elite,” will continue to use the 3nm node, giving Google a potential edge — at least on paper — when the Pixel 11 launches.
Samsung is also rumoured to be developing a 2nm Exynos 2600. Well-known leaker Jukan Choi has indicated that Samsung's 2nm chip development is progressing more smoothly than its reportedly problematic 3nm process.
Looks like within DigiTimes, I've been upgraded from a commentator to an expert now, haha. pic.twitter.com/RrvAslXzMR
June 24, 2025If true, it may indicate that Samsung, too, is closing the performance and efficiency gap with rivals.
What It Means For Pixel Fans
The move to TSMC's 2nm process could be the performance breakthrough Pixel users have been waiting for. If Google executes this transition well, the Pixel 11 may finally deliver not just on software smarts and camera quality, but also compete head-to-head with Apple and Samsung on sheer speed and efficiency.
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