Google’s moves in the field of developing chip technologies continue to attract attention in the technology world. A major information leak regarding the Tensor series chips that the company is expected to use in its future devices indicates that TSMC will replace Samsung in the production process. These claims are particularly focused on the Tensor G5 model, codenamed “laguna”. It is anticipated that this new chip, which is expected to be produced with TSMC’s 3nm N3E technology, will have advanced performance features. However, a new device codenamed “Google Frankel” seen on GeekBench recently has caused various comments that Tensor G5 may be featured on this platform for the first time.
Google Frankel’s processor structure is largely compatible with the leaked details of the chip, which is estimated to be Tensor G5. According to GeekBench test results, the device codenamed Frankel has one Arm Cortex-X4 main core running at 3.40 GHz, five performance cores at 2.86 GHz and two efficiency cores at 2.44 GHz. This configuration seems compatible with the core structure expected to be included in Tensor G5.
According to leaked information, Imagination Technologies’ DXT-48-1536 graphics unit is expected to be used in Tensor G5, but in GeekBench data, the PowerVR graphics unit stands out instead of this unit. Although there is no major contradiction between the two differences, considering that PowerVR is a GPU architecture developed by Imagination Technologies, this information creates some uncertainty about the final graphics capabilities of the Tensor G5. These features of Google Frankel seen in GeekBench also strengthen the possibility that the chip may be under development. Therefore, these test results are not considered to reflect final performance.
On the other hand, Google’s transfer of its production partnership with Tensor G5 from Samsung to TSMC indicates that the chip can offer significant improvements in terms of efficiency and performance. TSMC’s 3nm N3E process can enable smaller transistors and more efficient power usage, making it possible to achieve high performance in mobile devices with lower energy consumption. These features can offer great advantages, especially for flagship smartphones where the need for long battery life and processing power comes to the fore.
Google will use Tensor G5 first in the Pixel series
Google is expected to use the Tensor G5 chip first in the Pixel series. Potential improvements in the chip’s performance and energy efficiency could deliver optimized experiences, especially for AI operations and graphics-intensive applications. However, when evaluating the final performance of the device, it is emphasized that the test results of this version, which is thought to be under development, should not be trusted. It is stated that the device codenamed Google Frankel that appeared on GeekBench may be an early prototype, so the current benchmark results may change in the final version.