Google Plans Ambitious 2nm Leap for Next-Generation Tensor G6 Processor

Over the past few years, smartphone chips have seen remarkable improvements, primarily due to advancements in manufacturing processes. The move towards smaller nanometer nodes has allowed semiconductor foundries like TSMC and Samsung to fit more transistors into the same physical space, resulting in enhanced performance and improved energy efficiency. Both Samsung’s Exynos 2500 chipset and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite utilize a 3nm process, and it is expected that Google’s forthcoming Tensor G5 chip will also follow suit, powering the upcoming Pixel 10 series.

Samsung is already looking to the future, as it has commenced development on a 2nm chip intended for its flagship models in 2026. Recent reports from Taiwan indicate that Google is not far behind in this race. The company has shifted from collaborating with Samsung to partnering with TSMC for this year’s Tensor G5 chip, which is anticipated to continue with the Tensor G6 next year.

According to leaks from Taiwanese sources, the Tensor G6 will be manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm process. Historically, Google’s Tensor chips have trailed behind competitors in terms of specifications. The original Tensor was built on a 5nm process, which was also used for the Tensor G2, while rivals had already progressed to a 4nm process.

The Tensor G3 and G4 maintained the 4nm build, even though competitors advanced to 3nm. With the Tensor G5, Google is finally set to narrow the gap by launching along with the Pixel 10 series later this year. The anticipated leap to TSMC’s 2nm process for the Tensor G6 next year could allow Google not only to catch up but potentially to surpass Qualcomm in performance.

As Qualcomm is expected to manufacture its next Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Gen2 on a 3nm process with a unique 2nm version reserved for Galaxy devices, Google’s strategy may well position it as a formidable player in the chipset market going forward. After the launch of the Pixel 10 series in the coming months, further news regarding Google’s plans for the Pixel 11 series and the Tensor G6 chipset should emerge.