NEWS  Smartphones  February 9, 2024  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

In the realm of tech enthusiasts and smartphone aficionados, leaks and speculations about upcoming devices often spark fervent discussions and debates. Among the latest buzz is Google's highly anticipated Tensor G4 system-on-chip (SoC), purportedly set to power the next iterations of the Pixel lineup: Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel Fold 2. Previous leaks hinted at a conservative approach by Google, suggesting incremental improvements over its predecessor, the Tensor G3. However, a recent Geekbench listing has provided fresh insights, offering a glimpse into the potential specifications and performance of the Tensor G4.

The Geekbench debut of the Tensor G4 coincides with the appearance of a mysterious device codenamed "Google Tokay". While it remains ambiguous which of the upcoming Pixel devices this SoC is destined for, a closer examination of the listing suggests authenticity. The Tensor G4 is purported to feature an Arm Mali G715 GPU, alongside a CPU configuration comprising 1x Cortex X4/X5 core clocked at 3.1 GHz, 3x Cortex A7xx cores at 2.6 GHz, and four Cortex A5xx cores at 1.95 GHz, complemented by 8 GB of RAM.

At first glance, the specifications raise eyebrows, notably due to the reduction in CPU core count compared to its predecessor. The Tensor G4's 8-core design contrasts with the Tensor G3's 9 CPU cores, deviating from the conventional trend of increasing core counts in upgraded iterations. Moreover, early benchmark scores indicate a performance dip, with the Tensor G4 trailing behind its predecessor in Geekbench 5's single and multi-core tests.

One of the intriguing revelations surrounding the Tensor G4 is its manufacturing process. Set to be produced on Samsung's 4LPP+ node, the same technology utilized in the Exynos 2400 SoC, questions arise regarding its performance compared to competitors. The Exynos chipset has demonstrated competitive prowess against offerings from Qualcomm and MediaTek, prompting speculation about the Tensor G4's capabilities in the fiercely contested smartphone market.

For enthusiasts eagerly anticipating a significant performance leap, whispers of the Tensor G5 offer a glimmer of hope. Rumored to be Google's next endeavor, the Tensor G5 purportedly represents a departure from its predecessors, built from the ground up on a yet-to-be-disclosed TSMC node. As speculation abounds, the tech community eagerly awaits further developments and official announcements from Google regarding its future SoC endeavors.

 IMAGES CREDITS: GEEKBENCH