Tensor, Google's new custom SoC for the Pixel 6 series, is alleged to be built on Samsung's 5 nm node
Yesterday, Google officially showcased its upcoming flagship phones, the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. While most of the focus has been on the phones' expected camera performance, even more intriguing is the SoC that will drive the devices—Google's new custom-made chip, Tensor. Not much is known about Tensor. However, new information has now been revealed.
According to a report by Nikkei, Tensor is made by Samsung using its "advanced 5 nm" process. Samsung already makes the Snapdragon 888 with its 5 nm process, but it's unknown if that's the same node used for Tensor—or an improved one. Samsung's 5 nm process has received some criticism for its implementation on the Snapdragon 888, with the chipset typically not being as efficient as one would expect. Perhaps most would be happier were Tensor built by TSMC.
That said, Google has always led the Android market with regards to optimization, and it'd be surprising if the Pixel 6 series suffered from any of the issues that plague some Snapdragon 888-powered phones.
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