Google has decided to switch from Samsung Foundry to TSMC for the manufacturing of its next-generation Tensor G5 chip, which will be used in the Pixel 10 series. The chip is being manufactured using TSMC’s 4nm process, as revealed by information detected by AndroidAuthority. The new chip, codenamed ‘Laguna Beach’, has been sent to an Indian company for testing and is packaged using InFO POP technology from TSMC. The chip description also mentions A0 revision and system-level testing performed with the chip.
It appears that Google may not have been completely satisfied with the performance of Samsung Foundry in manufacturing its chips over the past four years. While the initial Tensor chips were based on high-end Exynos chips with some customizations by Google, they were not as powerful as competitors’ chips and faced issues such as overheating and inefficient modems. This could be attributed to Samsung Foundry’s manufacturing technologies, which are known to be cheaper but have drawbacks in power consumption and efficiency.
In contrast, TSMC is known for its advanced manufacturing processes, and Google’s decision to switch to TSMC’s 4nm process for the Tensor G5 chip could indicate a push for improved performance and efficiency in future Pixel devices. The move away from Samsung Foundry also comes as Samsung is preparing to unveil its own 3nm process for chips, with the Exynos W1000 chip for the Galaxy Watch 7 rumored to be the first notable chip to use this new process. Samsung’s next-generation Exynos chip for the Galaxy S25 is also expected to utilize Samsung Foundry’s second-generation 3nm process.
Overall, Google’s shift to TSMC for the manufacturing of the Tensor G5 chip reflects a strategic decision to enhance the performance and efficiency of its chips, potentially improving the competitiveness of future Pixel devices in the market. It also highlights the ongoing advancements in chip manufacturing processes and the competitive landscape among semiconductor companies.
Article Source
https://www.sammobile.com/news/google-pixel-10-tensor-g5-tsmc-drops-samsung-foundry/
