The upcoming release of Google’s Pixel 8 family in 2023 has generated a wave of excitement among tech enthusiasts. Leaked information about the chipset powering these new smartphones, the Tensor G3, has surfaced. While Google doesn’t aim to compete directly with the latest chipsets from Qualcomm and MediaTek, the Tensor G3 promises to bring unique features and enhancements to the Pixel 8 series.
The leak, provided by the reputable source Kamila Wojciechowska from Android Authority, sheds light on the CPU configuration of the Tensor G3. It is reported to comprise nine cores, including a single Cortex-X3 core clocked at 3.00GHz, four Cortex-A715 cores with a default frequency of 2.45GHz, and four Cortex-A510 high-efficiency cores. This arrangement showcases Google’s focus on striking a balance between power and efficiency. The GPU is anticipated to be the Arm Mali-G715 with 10 cores and a frequency of 890MHz, boasting support for ray tracing technology.
Although the leak doesn’t explicitly mention the manufacturing process, it is speculated that Samsung’s 3rd generation 4nm technology will be utilized in creating the Tensor G3. Additionally, the chipset appears to be based on the unannounced Exynos 2300, hinting at a collaboration between Google and Samsung.
One standout feature of the Tensor G3 is its support for AV1 encoding, making it the first smartphone SoC to offer this capability. Moreover, the Multi-Function Codec (MFC) now enables 8K30 video decoding and encoding. This suggests that the Pixel 8’s hardware can handle such resolutions and frame rates during video capture, albeit with considerations for potential overheating and storage consumption issues. The new Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), codenamed ‘Rio,’ is expected to run at 1.10GHz in the Tensor G3, signifying a significant upgrade over its predecessor.
While faster data transfer speeds with UFS 4.0 support can be anticipated, users can also expect notable improvements in areas such as app launch times and overall device responsiveness. However, when compared to its predecessor, the Tensor G3 may not showcase significant advancements in other aspects.
Some may express disappointment that Google has chosen not to incorporate Arm’s latest Cortex-X4 and Cortex-A720 cores in the Tensor G3. However, the final judgment will depend on the real-world performance and usability of the device. By partnering with Samsung for manufacturing, Google hopes to mitigate concerns surrounding heating issues. If successful, the Pixel 8 family can attract users with features beyond pure specifications and establish itself as a leading Android smartphone.
