If you're a Pixel user like me, you've likely grown accustomed to the mixed bag that is Google's Tensor chip. On one hand, there's smart software, excellent cameras, and AI features; on the other, underwhelming thermals, battery life, and performance. However, there's now a genuine chance that things could improve.

For a while now, through leaks and rumors, we've known that Google's upcoming Tensor G5 chip will be manufactured by TSMC rather than Samsung Foundry. A new report from Digitimes, referenced by Android Authority, adds another layer: this isn't just a one-time change.

According to the report, Google and TSMC have entered into a long-term partnership that could span the next five Pixel generations, all the way up to the Pixel 14.

Samsung Foundry and the Pixel's Performance Limitations

The Pixel 8 is my go-to device, and it's undoubtedly a solid phone. Yet, the Tensor still falls short compared to the top offerings from Qualcomm or MediaTek. I typically get a full day of battery life, but there are instances when I need to charge multiple times throughout the day.

When I compare this to Chinese brands like OnePlus, which are pushing boundaries with ultra-fast charging and offering two-day battery life effortlessly, it's hard not to feel somewhat sidelined. Coupled with the performance delivered by chips such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and 8 Elite, which boast impressive gaming capabilities, I naturally expect more from my Pixel.

To be fair, Tensor has made strides—G3 was a significant leap forward from G1 and G2, and G4 brings minor enhancements—but given how rapidly Qualcomm is advancing across the board, these Tensor improvements feel modest at best.

Much of this might be attributed to Samsung Foundry, which has handled Tensor chip production since the start. Similar challenges arose previously—Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, fabricated by Samsung, ran hot and inefficient. However, when Qualcomm transitioned to TSMC for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, improvements were noticeable, even though the architecture remained unchanged.

If a foundry switch made such a difference for Qualcomm, it's logical to anticipate similar benefits for Google's rumored move to TSMC.

What TSMC Could Mean for Pixel

TSMC is widely regarded as the leading chip manufacturer. From Apple's M-series to most of Qualcomm's latest Snapdragons, TSMC's fabrication processes consistently lead the industry in power efficiency and thermal management. The Tensor G5 is rumored to be built on a 3nm node, promising tangible gains in battery life and cooling.

This could have broader implications for Pixel hardware. For instance, consider charging speeds. The Pixel 9 Pro XL maxes out at 37W wired charging—not bad, but far behind competitors like the OnePlus 13 with its 100W speeds. Enhanced chip efficiency could enable higher sustained power draws, potentially allowing Google to narrow this gap without overheating concerns.

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Should the report prove accurate and Google indeed sign a multi-year agreement with TSMC, it signals a fundamental shift in Google's silicon strategy. This is encouraging, as one of Tensor's shortcomings since inception has been its lack of long-term competitiveness.

However, here's the crucial point: changing foundries doesn't automatically resolve all issues.

What If the Issue Isn't Just Samsung?

A valid question arises here: what if Tensor's problems aren't solely due to the foundry but stem from the design itself?

Even with the Tensor G4 showing some progress, Pixel phones continue to lag in raw performance and sustained efficiency. If these issues persist in the TSMC-produced G5, then Google's chip architecture might be the root problem. After all, Qualcomm didn't merely benefit from better manufacturing—they also significantly refined their chip design.

Thus, while this rumored shift is exciting, it places the spotlight squarely on Google. If the Tensor G5 fails to deliver even with TSMC's support, there won't be many excuses left.

Cautiously Optimistic

As a Pixel enthusiast, this is the most hopeful I've felt in a while. If this TSMC rumor holds true and Google brings its best to the table in terms of design, we might finally see a Pixel phone with no glaring hardware compromises. A phone that doesn't overheat during 4K video recording in daylight. One that lasts longer, charges faster, and doesn't seem perpetually behind in each release cycle.

Yet, this is also a pivotal moment. Either this rumored move to TSMC ignites a new era of Pixel excellence, or it confirms that Google's silicon struggles run deeper than anticipated.

Wrapping Up

The upcoming Pixel 10 is set to be a crucial phone for Google. We've already discussed the anticipated camera upgrades and innovative accessibility features in the works. Oh, and let's not overlook the leaked full-on ad campaign—easily one of the quirkiest Pixel leaks I've encountered thus far.

Similar to last year, Google is expected to debut the Pixel 10 series in August, so expect more details to emerge in the coming weeks.

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