Google is ambitiously expanding its Pixel series with the Tensor chip lineup, and the recent introduction of the Pixel 7a at the I/O event has stirred up excitement among Android enthusiasts. However, the anticipation doesn’t stop there, as eager fans eagerly await the arrival of the Pixel 8 series with the new Tensor G3, which was recently shown off in CAD renders. One of the main attractions of these upcoming smartphones is the highly anticipated Tensor G3 CPU. Excitingly, new information has surfaced regarding the chipset of the Pixel 8, revealing intriguing details about its capabilities.
Google Tensor G3: Major Upgrades
According to a report from Android Authority, which “source inside Google”, the upcoming Tensor G3 processor holds immense potential for Google’s future devices. While the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet, set to be unveiled this month, will continue using Tensor G2 technology, the G3 chip is expected to bring significant advancements. The report reveals insights into how the Tensor G3 processor could impact Google’s devices, particularly with the upcoming Pixel 8 slated for later this year.
The Tensor G3 boasts a substantial upgrade in its CPU module, featuring a complete redesign that incorporates the state-of-the-art ARMv9 cores introduced in 2022. Departing from the conventional 4+2+2 core configuration, Google has adopted an innovative nine-core architecture for the G3. This configuration includes four Cortex-A510s, four Cortex-A715s, and a single Cortex-X3, delivering a significant performance boost.
The Pixel 8 processor introduces a range of intriguing capabilities, such as ARM’s cutting-edge Memory Tagging Extensions designed to enhance device security against memory-based attacks. Additionally, the Pixel 8 exclusively supports 64-bit applications, setting a new standard. However, Google is keeping some surprises up its sleeve.
The Pixel 8, powered by the Tensor G3 processor, introduces the Arm Mali-G715 graphics processor, featuring a remarkable 10-core increase compared to previous models. This upgrade hints at the Pixel 8’s potential to offer captivating ray-tracing capabilities, showcasing Google’s dedication to catering to gamers and graphics-intensive applications.
With the G3 processor, Google seamlessly integrates artificial intelligence (AI), a growing trend in the industry. The Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), a core component of Google’s custom CPUs, takes center stage, and the G3 incorporates an enhanced iteration called “Rio,” expected to deliver significant speed improvements. This reaffirms Google’s ongoing commitment to incorporating AI and machine learning capabilities into their smartphone lineup.
Notable enhancements include the inclusion of a cutting-edge digital signal processor (DSP) in the Pixel 8. The DSP handles crucial tasks like audio and image processing, and the latest generation promises improved efficiency, resulting in a faster and more power-efficient Pixel 8. Additionally, the Pixel 8 adopts an improved UFS controller. UFS, or Universal Flash Storage, is the prevalent storage type in smartphones.
The new UFS controller supports UFS 4.0 storage, the most advanced and convenient variant available. As a result, the Pixel 8 can read and write data to its storage medium more swiftly than its predecessors. Alongside the innovative DSP and UFS controller, the Tensor G3 boasts a redesigned CPU, enhanced security measures, and groundbreaking graphics capabilities.
