Google is reportedly making significant strides with its next-gen Tensor G6, which will be mass-produced using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm process. This move allows Google to stay competitive in the smartphone market, especially with the upcoming Pixel 11 series.
The Tensor G6 will be produced on a more advanced lithography compared to its predecessor, the Tensor G5, which is based on TSMC’s 3nm ‘N3E’ process.
For the Pixel 10 series, this marks an important shift in Google’s partnership with foundry suppliers. Historically, Google has relied on Samsung, but executives recently traveled to Taiwan to strike a deal with TSMC for up to five years. The new deal means that Google will use TSMC’s 2nm process for the Tensor G6 in the Pixel 11, which will be a leap forward in technology.
However, this move might come with a hefty price tag. While the 2nm process offers impressive performance and efficiency gains, it also represents a significant investment for Google. Given that the company doesn’t ship the same volume of smartphones as Apple or Samsung, the cost per unit could be high. In the end, Google may choose to absorb these costs, or it might reconsider and opt for TSMC’s 3nm N3P process to save on production expenses.
Interestingly, TSMC started accepting orders for its 2nm technology earlier this year, but no customer details were disclosed. There have been speculations that Apple would be the first to secure a portion of this limited production. Yet, reports suggest that Google will also be using this advanced node for its Tensor G6, skipping the N3P in favor of a more efficient and powerful option.
In terms of competition, this puts Google in a better position, allowing the company to catch up with rivals like Apple and Samsung, who have already been using advanced manufacturing techniques for their chips. Despite the higher costs, this decision is seen as an important step for Google’s future in mobile chip development, positioning the company to offer better performance and longer battery life in its upcoming devices.
At the same time, it’s worth noting that some experts remain skeptical about whether the decision to use TSMC’s 2nm process is the right move for Google. There are concerns that the higher costs might outweigh the benefits of having cutting-edge technology in a smartphone that doesn’t sell in the same volumes as its competitors. Google’s focus on efficiency, battery life, and user experience will be key in determining whether this move proves to be worthwhile or not.
For now, all we can do is wait and see how Google handles the challenges of producing its Tensor G6 chips with this new, more advanced process. Will it push the boundaries of mobile performance, or will the high costs limit its potential? Only time will tell.
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