The Google Tensor chip series is set for a significant evolution, with recent leaks offering an exciting glimpse into what we might expect from the upcoming Tensor G5 and G6. According to these leaks, Google will reportedly transition its chip manufacturing from Samsung to TSMC, with the G5 chip being codenamed “Laguna” and set to use TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm N3E process. This switch in production could offer improvements in performance, efficiency, and overall reliability, giving Google’s Pixel devices a notable competitive edge.
Inside the Google Tensor G5 Chip Design
The Tensor G5 will reportedly feature a sophisticated CPU configuration, including a 1x Arm Cortex-X4 prime core, clocked for peak performance, 5x Cortex-A725 performance cores, and 2x Arm Cortex-A520 efficiency cores. This multi-core arrangement should enable the Tensor G5 to handle intensive workloads while maintaining energy efficiency for lighter tasks. Additionally, the chip is expected to sport a dual-core DXT-48-1536 GPU unit from Imagination Technologies, clocked at 1.1 GHz, promising a graphics boost that could enhance gaming and other GPU-intensive applications on Pixel devices.
Tensor G5 Geekbench scores are here.
— Sanju Choudhary (@saaaanjjjuuu) November 2, 2024
– 1 x Core @ 3.40 GHz
– 2 x Cores @ 2.44 GHz
– 5 x Cores @ 2.86 GHz
– Power VR graphics
Thoughts? pic.twitter.com/iyVBNpBir4
GeekBench Leak: Meet “Google Frankel”
Further fueling excitement, a new device dubbed “Google Frankel” surfaced on GeekBench, sparking speculation that it might be the Tensor G5. The listing aligns with previous reports, showing a CPU setup that includes one high-performance core clocked at up to 3.40 GHz, five performance cores running up to 2.86 GHz, and two efficiency cores clocked at up to 2.44 GHz. This configuration suggests a balanced chip designed for both power and efficiency, which could translate into better multitasking and faster app performance for end-users.
The Power VR Mystery
A curious detail in the GeekBench leak indicates that the chip uses Power VR graphics instead of the Imagination Technologies DXT-48-1536 GPU mentioned in earlier reports. However, Power VR is still part of Imagination Technologies’ GPU lineup, so this discrepancy may not be substantial. Alternatively, it could signify an experimental setup on the prototype, meaning the final G5 chip might still feature the expected GPU unit.
What to Expect
While these leaked specifications look promising, it’s essential to approach benchmark scores with caution. Early prototypes often undergo fine-tuning, and the scores might not reflect the chip’s final performance capabilities. If the leaked details hold true, Google’s Tensor G5 could represent a substantial leap forward, especially with TSMC’s manufacturing expertise enhancing power efficiency and processing speed.
Stay tuned as more official details emerge on Google’s upcoming Tensor chip advancements.
