The Google Pixel 9 is on the horizon, and it's bringing with it a powerful upgrade: the Google Tensor G4 processor. This new chipset aims to deliver enhanced performance and efficiency, continuing the legacy established by its predecessor, the Tensor G3.
Built alongside Samsung, the Tensor G4 incorporates Arm architecture for its CPU and GPU cores, along with Google’s proprietary components which are aimed primarily at AI, photography, and security. While the G4 may not be the game-changing chip Google initially envisioned, it still packs some impressive improvements.
A notable highlight from Google’s announcement is the promise of up to 20% faster web browsing and app launching speeds, combined with significant power efficiency improvements. Despite these upgrades, many enthusiasts are left wondering how the Tensor G4 differentiates itself from its predecessor.
Breaking down the specs, the Tensor G4 is powered by Arm CPU and GPU cores and is constructed using Samsung’s advanced 4nm process technology. Speculation suggests it utilizes the same 4LPP+ process as Samsung’s Exynos 2400, though official confirmation from Google is lacking.
Insights reveal the processor houses one Cortex-X4 core clocked at 3.1GHz, three Cortex-A720 cores at 2.6GHz, and four Cortex-A520 cores at 1.95GHz. While these core types are recognized as the current generation, they nonetheless lag behind the entirely new chipsets expected to arrive later in 2024.
The shift to newer cores is significant as it enhances performance levels, particularly when launching applications swiftly. Even though this setup contains one less middle core compared to the Tensor G3, it may optimize power distribution for higher clock speeds.
On the graphics front, the Tensor G4 remains outfitted with an Arm Mali-G715 GPU. Currently, GPU configuration details are still under wraps, but it appears to mirror the previous chip’s seven-core arrangement.
Despite some performance improvements, gamers may be disappointed to discover the G4 doesn't quite compete with leading chips like Snapdragon or Dimensity. The static GPU architecture doesn't support advanced features like ray tracing, leaving gamers with challenges when it’s time to bump up the graphics.
Traditionally, Google's Tensor processors have prioritized enabling unique features over raw speed metrics. Critics note, especially with the Tensor G4, this latest generation might not offer substantial upgrades for those contemplating making a switch.
AI capabilities are one of the focal points of the Tensor initiative, enabling cutting-edge features like Gemini and advancements in computational photography. While Google has kept the nitty-gritty of its TPU technology close to the vest, they did share the impressive statistics around its token processing rate.
The Tensor G4 can reportedly handle 45 tokens per second, signaling its speed leads over competitors like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, which averages 15 tokens per second. Nonetheless, it’s important to understand the context around those numbers: the G4 runs on the smaller 'Gemini Nano' model, which may lack significant differentiation when pitted against competitors with larger model parameters.
Interestingly, the Tensor G4 carries over the same ‘rio’ AI core from the G3. This implies any advanced new AI functionalities integrated within the Pixel 9 may not solely arise from the new chipset, but rather from collaborative improvements throughout the Pixel hardware ecosystem.
RAM allocation also plays a massive role, with the Pixel 9 featuring 12GB of RAM, expandable to 16GB for the Pro models. Google has structured this design with dedicated RAM portions for AI tasks to bolster performance, ensuring fluid functionality during intense applications.
While many internal features seem to mirror those of the Tensor G3, there are some key additions to the Tensor G4. It utilizes the Exynos Modem 5400, promising substantial enhancements to connectivity and energy consumption compared to its predecessors.
The Exynos modem can double the efficiency found with its earlier model, the Modem 5300, clearing the path for smoother mobile connectivity. Importantly, this modem extends support for features like 5G non-terrestrial networks, allowing the Pixel 9 series to feature new satellite communications capabilities for SOS messaging.
Despite being heavily tied to the Pixel smartphone lineage, Google hopes the Tensor G4 provides meaningful performance and efficiency improvements. Everyday tasks and applications stand to gain from these generational upgrades.
On the flip side, gamers might find this latest chip to fall short of expectations, as it doesn't introduce any gaming-centric enhancements. Shifting focus outside of gaming, the electronics community typically emphasizes AI and unique photography features, prompting some excitement for the Tensor G4.
Interestingly, the Tensor G4 fails to boast new features for AI or photography when stacked against its predecessor. Industry insiders speculate this may indicate Google's transitional phase away from dependence on Samsung for its chip production.
Looking forward, the promise of the Tensor G4 remains clear—it is the supporting backbone for extraordinary AI functionalities within the Pixel 9 series. Even as excitement mounts for upcoming features, intrigue lingers about significant improvements expected when the Tensor G5 hits the market with Google’s revamped semiconductor strategy.
The anticipation surrounding the Google Pixel 9 and its Tensor G4 processor centers on how well it can hold its ground against fierce competition. Delivering on its promises will be key as consumers weigh upgrading their devices.
