Pixel 11: google dumps samsung, bets on mediatek for a risky gamble
The Pixel 11 series is finally on the horizon, and while many are eagerly awaiting an upgrade from their aging Pixel 6 Pro, whispers from the tech grapevine suggest a significant shift in Google’s hardware strategy – and one that could prove profoundly problematic.
A gamble on mediatek: ditching samsung’s 5g
Rumors are mounting that Google is abandoning its long-standing partnership with Samsung for 5G modems, opting instead for MediaTek’s M90 chip. This move, driven by concerns over connectivity issues experienced by Pixel 6 Pro users – stemming largely from the 7nm Exynos 5123b modem – represents a bold, and arguably desperate, attempt to avoid a repeat of past problems. Frankly, it’s a shift that prioritizes short-term stability over the consistent performance users have come to expect.
Gpu revelation: an older chip, a new strategy
However, the news doesn’t end there. Leaker Mystic Leaks has revealed that Google intends to utilize the Imagination/PowerVR C-Series CXTP-48-1536 GPU – a design dating back to 2021. Now, Google's planning on implementing an updated version of this component, a move that mitigates concerns about graphical performance. Yet, it’s a strategic choice that speaks volumes about their priorities: squeezing every last drop of efficiency from a potentially underpowered chipset.
Die space and ai: a calculated trade-off
This GPU decision, I suspect, is less about delivering cutting-edge gaming visuals and more about freeing up precious die space for significant upgrades to the Tensor G6’s CPU and Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Let’s be honest, most Pixel users aren’t chasing frame rates in demanding titles. Google’s focus – and should be – is squarely on leveraging the Tensor’s AI capabilities, and this move allows them to invest heavily in that area rather than doubling down on graphics horsepower. It’s a pragmatic, if somewhat underwhelming, approach.
Tensor g6: seven cores, a unusual configuration
The Tensor G6 itself is slated to pack a seven-core configuration – a configuration that deviates from the typical even number of cores found in modern processors. Featuring one ARM C1 Ultra Prime Core clocked at 4.11GHz, four C1-Pro Performance Cores at 3.38GHz, and two C1-Pro Efficiency Cores running at 2.65GHz, the potential for boosted performance is certainly there, partially aided by the 2nm process node. But it's a gamble that hinges on the GPU’s efficiency.
Pixel’s shifting ground: market share growth
Despite the concerns surrounding the Tensor chip, Google is witnessing a notable increase in its market share, particularly within the premium smartphone segment. Last year, Pixel accounted for around 3-5% of U.S. smartphone sales, and a remarkable 7% among devices priced $600 and above. This growth is fuelled by the Pixel's renowned camera capabilities and its commitment to timely Android updates – a significant advantage in a fragmented market.
I/o 2026: the next chapter
Google is slated to unveil more details about the Pixel 11 line at its I/O developer conference in May. A launch event is expected in mid-August, followed by the official release shortly thereafter. Let’s hope the underlying hardware can live up to the hype – and that Google has made the right call on this strategic pivot.