Google Pixel 7a and Pixel 7 found to use slightly different Tensor G2 variants

One of the main gripes with recent Pixel devices has been its lacklustre Tensor SoC. The recently announced Pixel 7a is no exception with its Tensor G2. However, noted leaker @Za_Raczke has discovered an interesting difference between the Tensor G2 variant used in the Pixel 7 and its a-branded variant.

Buried deep within Google's code were references to the Pixel 7a-specific Tensor G2. It uses IPOP (Interposer Package on Package), an older packaging method from 2008, as opposed to 2020's FOPLOP (Fan Out Panel Level Packaging) on the Pixel 7. Another leaker, RGCloudS, chimes in to state FOPLOP offers better electrical and thermal performance compared to IPOP, along with higher transistor density.

However, the performance difference is negligible in the real world, as confirmed by our in-depth Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a reviews. Its effects are apparent in thermals, though, with the Pixel 7a getting significantly hotter (up to 48.3 °C/119 F) compared to the Pixel 7 (up to 43.2 °C /110 F). However, an apples-to-apples comparison wouldn't be fair, as both smartphones use different cooling methods.

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