We now have information about the Tensor 3 CPU, which will likely power the Pixel 8 when it launches early next year, as we wait patiently for the Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro to be completely unveiled, replete with the improved Tensor 2 chipset.
According to GalaxyClub (opens in new tab) (via 9to5Google (opens in new tab)), Google and Samsung have been testing an improved Tensor chipset, which logically should be dubbed the Tensor 3. According to reports, the third-generation processor is being tested on a developer board with the codename Ripcurrent and has the model number S5P9865.
That sets it apart from the Tensor 2, whose model number is thought to be S5P9855 (and is being tested on a board codenamed Cloudripper). You can observe the pattern since the S5P9845 model number is associated with the original Tensor chipset.
With everything, chips
We don't know how much more powerful the Tensor 3 CPU is expected to be at this moment, and we don't know much about the Tensor 2 other than the fact that it will be powering the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro.
There will undoubtedly be some performance improvements and even more in the way of processing power for artificial intelligence, but it's noteworthy that Google is still working with Samsung on these chips as the Pixel line develops. According to rumours, the Tensor processors are built using Samsung Exynos technology.
Speaking of Exynos, the GalaxyClub story also claims that a chip that will probably be the Exynos 1380, the replacement for the Exynos 1280 that is now featured in a number of mid-range Samsung phones, is also in development (like the Samsung Galaxy A53).
Analysis: increasing
Even while the original Tensor chipset has a lot going for it, it's fair to say that it can't compete with current chipsets found in the iPhone 13 such as the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or the A15 Bionic CPU.
However, by creating its own silicon in collaboration with Samsung, Google is able to tailor it very precisely to the requirements of its Pixel phones. In order to use Google Assistant and the Pixel's sophisticated photo processing functions, it is necessary to ensure that the architecture is suitable for AI processing.
For instance, we are aware that the original Tensor chip powers the live translation feature that is featured on the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, as well as helping with face detection while snapping images. When the Tensor 3 inevitably makes an appearance inside a phone, most likely early next year, expect more of the same.
Google will still want a flagship that can compete with its rivals, even if benchmark results aren't the most crucial factor in a mobile processor's performance. It will be interesting to see how the new chip performs in this area.
This is our final judgement on the Google Pixel 6a.
