For years, the narrative around Google’s Pixel smartphones has been a tale of two halves: industry-leading software and computational photography, hamstrung by the persistent growing pains of its custom Tensor chipset. While the Tensor chips delivered on AI smarts, they often lagged behind the competition in two critical areas: raw efficiency and cellular connectivity. The modem, in particular, has been a longstanding point of contention for Pixel loyalists.
Now, a seismic shift appears to be on the horizon. Following the already-confirmed move of Tensor fabrication to TSMC, a new and even more significant change is reportedly in the works for the Tensor G6, destined for the Pixel 11 series. Google may finally be severing its last major hardware tie with Samsung by dropping the Exynos modem in favor of a powerful new solution from MediaTek.
This isn't just a component swap; it's a potential course correction that could finally deliver the holistic flagship experience Pixel fans have been waiting for.
The Long Road to Independence: From Samsung Foundry to a New Modem Partner
To understand the gravity of this move, we need a quick history lesson. Google’s Tensor chips, from the G1 to the current G4, have been co-developed with Samsung Semiconductor, leveraging their Exynos architecture and manufactured on their foundry process. This collaboration brought us groundbreaking AI features but also inherited some of the Exynos line's historical drawbacks, namely thermal and power efficiency challenges.
The first major step towards independence was the announcement that the Tensor G5 (for the Pixel 10) would transition to TSMC’s superior manufacturing process. This was universally hailed as a win, promising better performance and battery life. However, a key piece of the puzzle was still missing: the modem.
Even with a TSMC-made Tensor G5, the cellular modem was still expected to be sourced from Samsung’s Exynos division. That is, until now.
A recent and compelling report from the reliable tech tipster Mystic Leaks on Telegram suggests Google is going all the way. The leak indicates that internal development for the Tensor G6 (codenamed "Malibu") has begun, and the most critical decision is the adoption of a MediaTek M90 modem.
You can read the full, detailed leak from the source right here: Mystic Leaks Telegram Report.
This move signals a clear intent from Google: to take full control of the Pixel's core performance and connectivity identity, leaving the Samsung-Exynos legacy firmly in the past.
Why the Switch to MediaTek’s M90 Modem is a Game-Changer
Replacing a core component like a modem is a monumental engineering task. Google wouldn’t undertake it without the promise of significant returns. So, what does the MediaTek M90 bring to the table that the Samsung modem doesn't?
The answer lies in three key areas: speed, intelligence, and next-generation features.
- Blistering Speed and Reliability: The MediaTek M90 modem boasts staggering peak download speeds of up to 12 Gbps. While peak speeds are often theoretical, this indicates a robust, modern modem architecture capable of leveraging 5G networks more effectively than its predecessor. For users, this translates to faster downloads, smoother streaming in congested areas, and a more reliable connection overall—a common pain point in past Pixel modems.
- AI-Driven Power Efficiency: This is arguably the headline feature for the average user. MediaTek has publicly stated that the M90 uses built-in AI models to dynamically manage power consumption, claiming a reduction in average power use by up to 18% compared to some rival modems. Given that the modem is one of the biggest battery drains in any phone, this improvement alone could single-handedly boost the Pixel 11's battery life by a noticeable margin. For a brand often criticized for its battery endurance, this is a potential game-changer.
- Future-Proof Connectivity: The M90 isn't just about better 5G; it's about preparing for the next wave of connectivity. It natively supports two-way satellite connectivity, a feature that is becoming a new battleground for premium smartphones, allowing for emergency messaging when far beyond cellular range. Furthermore, it supports advanced features like dual 5G SIM dual-active (DSDA), enabling both SIMs to operate on 5G networks simultaneously—a boon for international travelers and business users.
The Holy Grail: What This Means for the Pixel 11's Battery Life and Performance
The synergy between a TSMC-manufactured Tensor G6 chip and a highly efficient MediaTek M90 modem cannot be overstated. By addressing the two primary sources of power drain—the main processor and the cellular modem—Google is poised to make a monumental leap in battery efficiency.
Imagine a Pixel 11 that doesn't just last a day, but comfortably powers through a day and a half of heavy use. A device that stays cooler during prolonged gaming or video recording sessions because both the CPU and modem are sipping power, not guzzling it. This is the potential outcome of this strategic shift.
It also allows the focus to return to Google’s core strength: AI. With a more stable and efficient foundation, the Tensor G6's NPU (Neural Processing Unit) can work its magic on photography, voice assistance, and on-device generative AI without being bogged down by thermal throttling or a power-hungry radio.
A Promising Future, But a Cautious Optimism
Let's be frank: the Pixel community has been burned by hype before. The transition to the TSMC-made Tensor G5 was supposed to be the panacea, and if early rumors are to be believed, its gains may have been overestimated. The hope is that Google is learning from its past missteps and is now pulling out all the stops for the Tensor G6 generation.
Dropping the Samsung modem for a MediaTek alternative is a bold, expensive, and complex decision. It’s not one a company makes lightly. It signals a final, decisive step in Google’s journey to create a truly custom, best-in-class silicon solution.
If executed correctly, the Tensor G6-powered Pixel 11 could be the phone that finally silences the critics. It would represent the perfect marriage of Google's unparalleled software with hardware that truly deserves the "flagship" title. The era of compromise may soon be over, and for Pixel fans, that future can't come soon enough.
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