Compared to early adopters like Apple, Samsung, and Huawei, Google has been slow to catch up on making their own chips. While Google’s Tensor chips are custom-designed, they are still based on Samsung’s Exynos models.
A recent report from The Information, as reported by Android Authority indicates that Google is working on new custom chipsets for its Pixel phones. However, the development of one particular chipset codenamed “Redondo” and intended for the alleged Tensor G4 powering the Pixel 9 series, has reportedly been delayed.
Sources familiar with the matter shared with The Information that challenges arose due to difficulties in coordination between the American and Indian teams, as well as a high turnover rate of personnel involved in the chip development. The report also mentioned that this is not the first time Google has canceled Tensor chip projects, with a couple of them being scrapped in the past two years.
These challenges highlight the overall complexity and competitive nature of chip development, even for a company like Google. While the company is trying to establish its own custom chipsets for its Pixel phones, it has faced several setbacks and hurdles. This is because the development and production of custom chips require significant resources, expertise, and collaboration, which can pose challenges for any technology company.
Due to the delay and cancellation of the Redondo chipset, Google has shifted its focus to another processor codenamed “Laguna.” This new processor, expected to be built on a 3nm process, is rumored to be named Tensor G5 and is targeted for release in 2025. With the Tensor G5, Google aims to fully control the chipset’s design and customization, offering several advantages for future Pixel phones.
While Google will have authority over the design of the Tensor G5 chipset, it is likely that Arm-designed CPUs and GPUs will still be utilized by other chipset makers. However, this move allows Google to shape the overall performance and efficiency of the chipset according to its preferences.
Future Tensor chipsets are expected to transition from Samsung Semiconductor, the current manufacturer, to TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company). This change is similar to what happened with Qualcomm last year when they switched from Samsung Semiconductor to TSMC for their Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, resulting in significant improvements in performance and overheating issues.
Read also:
- Pixel 8 Pro Leaks – Will the New Pixel Have a Better Camera Setup?
- Pixel Fold Is One Step Closer To Launch: Passes Through FCC Ahead of the Google I/O Event
- Google Pixel 7a Real-Life Images Show Off Cool Packaging and New Colors
- Google Pixel 7a Is Expected To Be Available Sooner but With a Higher Price Tag
- The New Pixel 7a May Come in a Blue Color
Bethany Wilson 
