Despite the upcoming Pixel 9 series launch on August 13, details about its Tensor G4 chip have been scarce. A recent report from Android Authority sheds light on the matter, revealing that the chip will be a modest improvement over its predecessor, the Tensor G3.
While the Tensor G4 boasts newer ARM cores, clocked slightly higher than the G3, preliminary benchmarks indicate only a modest 11% boost in single-core performance and a mere 3% increase in multi-core performance. The chip does introduce the Exynos Modem 5400, enabling satellite connectivity and improved power efficiency. However, the GPU remains largely unchanged, with only a slight clock speed increase.
Crucially, the custom IP blocks that define Tensor’s character, such as the Edge TPU, GXP, BigWave, and Titan M2 security chip, are carried over from the G3. This suggests that the core identity of the Tensor chip remains intact.
Originally envisioned as a standalone chip, development challenges led to a renewed partnership with Samsung. As a result, the Tensor G4 emerges as a more incremental update than initially planned. While it promises refinements, the absence of a significant leap forward might temper expectations for the Pixel 9 series.
Key improvements:
- Newer ARM cores with slightly higher clock speeds
- Exynos Modem 5400 with satellite connectivity and improved power efficiency
Unchanged core components:
- GPU (Mali-G715)
- Custom IP blocks (Edge TPU, GXP, BigWave, Titan M2)
The Tensor G4 is more of a refined iteration than a groundbreaking chip. It brings some improvements, such as the new modem, providing some enhancements over its predecessor.
