Google Tensor G5 leak details key changes

Google Tensor G5 leak details key changes

  • 18.03.2025 00:00
  • gsmarena.com
  • Keywords: danger, success

Google's Tensor G5 chip, set for the Pixel 10 series, features TSMC's 3nm process, Imagination Technologies' IMG DXT GPU, a fully custom ISP, and third-party components like USB and PCIe interfaces. It also uses Chips&Media’s WAVE677DV codec, replacing previous AV1 and Samsung MFC solutions.

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Estimated market influence

Google

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Google is designing the Tensor G5 chipset, which represents a significant shift from previous reliance on Samsung. This move could enhance their control over hardware and potentially improve product performance.

Samsung

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Samsung's role in providing components for Google's Tensor chip has diminished as Google moves towards more custom designs, which may reduce Samsung's involvement and revenue from this partnership.

TSMC

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

TSMC is manufacturing the Tensor G5 on their 3nm node, solidifying their position as a leading semiconductor manufacturer and contributing to Google's advanced chip development.

Arm

Arm

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Buy

While Arm's CPU cores are still used, the shift to Imagination Technologies for GPU suggests reduced reliance on Arm's graphics solutions, potentially impacting their market share.

Imagination Technologies

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Analyst rating: N/A

Replacing Arm with Imagination Technologies in the Tensor G5 indicates a strategic move by Google to enhance GPU performance, benefiting Imagination's business.

Chips&Media

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Analyst rating: N/A

Chips&Media is providing advanced codec solutions for the Tensor G5, which could expand their market presence in video encoding technologies.

Context

Analysis of Google Tensor G5 Chipset Leak

Key Changes and Features

  • Custom Design Shift:

    • Tensor G5 is designed entirely by Google, marking a departure from previous collaborations with Samsung. This shift underscores Google's strategic focus on hardware independence and innovation.

  • Manufacturing Process:

    • The chipset is fabricated using TSMC's advanced 3nm node, promising enhanced performance and energy efficiency compared to earlier models.

  • GPU Upgrade:

    • Replaces Arm Mali-G715 MP7 with Imagination Technologies' IMG DXT GPU. This switch likely aims to improve graphics capabilities, beneficial for gaming and multimedia tasks.

  • ISP Innovation:

    • Features a fully custom image signal processor (ISP), contrasting with previous partially custom designs based on Samsung's technology. This upgrade is expected to bolster camera performance, aligning with Google's reputation in imaging tech.

  • Custom Components:

    • Includes a custom memory controller, system-level cache, and power modules, enhancing overall device efficiency and performance through better integration.

  • Video Codec Transition:

    • Ditches "BigWave" AV1 and Samsung's MFC for Chips&Media’s WAVE677DV, supporting encoding and decoding in AV1, VP9, HEVC, and H.264 formats, enhancing video processing capabilities.

  • Third-Party Components:

    • Utilizes third-party interfaces for USB, PCIe, DSI, DisplayPort, flash storage, and LPDDR5x memory, which may offer cost benefits or access to superior technology but introduces dependency risks.

Market Implications

  • Competitive Advantage:

    • Tensor G5's advanced features position Google's Pixel phones as stronger competitors in the high-end smartphone market, potentially attracting users seeking top-tier performance and camera quality.

  • Strategic Investment:

    • Google's move to develop its own chipsets may reduce dependency on external partners like Samsung, fostering innovation and differentiation in future devices.

Competitive Landscape

  • Response to Apple's Innovation:

    • Tensor G5 could be seen as a competitive response to Apple's advancements with M-series chips, highlighting Google's commitment to hardware excellence.

  • Impact on Samsung:

    • While losing chipset provider status, Samsung continues to supply other components, mitigating immediate business impact.

Long-Term Considerations

  • Potential Cost Efficiency:

    • Developing in-house chipsets may lead to long-term cost savings and enhanced product differentiation for Google.

  • Regulatory Considerations:

    • No direct regulatory implications noted, with focus on business strategy rather than compliance.

In summary, Tensor G5 represents a strategic pivot by Google towards greater hardware autonomy, promising improved device performance and competitive positioning in the smartphone market.