The next generation Google Tensor G4 will use 4LPP+ process

This year, Google unveiled the Tensor G3, marking its inaugural smartphone SoC to support the AV1 encoding, which has been integrated into its flagship products, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Unlike its competitors—Qualcomm’s third-generation Snapdragon 8 and MediaTek’s Dimensity 9300—which vie for the pinnacle of performance, Google’s intention for the Tensor G3 isn’t to engage in this rivalry. Instead, it aims to craft a chip tailored to its software needs. Maintaining its previous pattern, Google opted to collaborate with Samsung, and it’s rumored that the Tensor G3 has drawn inspiration from the yet-to-be-released Exynos 2300 design.

Google’s developmental focus is currently pivoting towards next year’s Tensor G4. However, the SoC that will be equipped in the Pixel 9 series doesn’t seem to promise substantial advancements. Recent online speculations suggest that the Google Tensor G4 codenamed “Zuma Pro,” is merely a modest upgrade based on the Tensor G3, operating on the “Ripcurrent Pro” development platform. The new chipset continues to benefit from the developmental expertise of Samsung’s team, possibly incorporating elements from the Exynos 2400 design.

Regarding its architecture, the CPU of the Tensor G4 persists with the tri-cluster configuration. The high-performance core will employ the Cortex-X4, the main cores will utilize the Cortex-A720, while the energy-efficient cores will be based on the Cortex-A520. The GPU segment is likely to continue with the Immortalis-G715. A point of contention remains regarding the quantity of CPU cores; while the current Tensor G3 boasts a 1+4+4 tri-cluster architecture, totaling 9 cores, it’s uncertain whether the Tensor G4 might expand to encompass 10 cores.

Those anticipating a marriage between the Google Tensor G4 and the 3nm GAA process might face disappointment. Rumor has it that, akin to the Exynos 2400, the Tensor G4 will adopt the 4LPP+ process. Fast forward to 2025, for the Pixel 10 series and the Tensor G5, Google may opt for a change in its manufacturing partnership. Whispers in the industry hint at Intel superseding Samsung as Google’s SoC producer.