1. Home
  2. Mobile

Google already kicking off work on the Tensor 2 processor for the future Pixel 7

By

The Pixel 6 and 6 Pro aren’t even in the hands of most customers yet, but Google is already working on its next-generation Tensor 2, as reported by 9to5Google, in the lead-up to the likely launch of the Pixel 7 next year.

After partnering with Qualcomm for nearly a decade, Google got into the chip-making business with the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, both powered by its Tensor chip that the company built in collaboration with Samsung. The new report claims that “Cloudripper,” a shared device platform that is said to belong to the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, contains hints of a GS201 chip — a second-generation model of the original Tensor “GS101” in the Pixel 6.

Recommended Videos

If Google was to be building a Pixel 7 next year, it only stands to reason that it would be working on the chip this year. There is little to be learned specifically about what Tensor 2 (or whatever it would be called) is bringing at this stage of development, however.

With Tensor, Google finally joined Apple as one of the few smartphone makers who control all of the experience. Tensor is optimized for artificial intelligence and machine learning scenarios rather than raw power (though it has that in spades), allowing Google to optimize experiences like the Pixel’s Magic eraser, a faster Assistant, on-device translation, and so more. Controlling all aspects of the hardware has allowed Google to prioritize the parts of the Pixel that set it apart from other Android devices, and while power is appreciated, it’s that control that lets the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro shine.

While our review of the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro remains pending, the consensus around the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro is that they perform right on par with some of the very best Android phones, with Tensor elevating the experience for an even smarter phone than the Pixel 5. Google already has a great start, now it just needs to capitalize on it.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Michael Allison
Mobile News Writer
A UK-based tech journalist for Digital Trends, helping keep track and make sense of the fast-paced world of tech with a…
The Google Pixel 8a is the Pixel phone I’ve been waiting for

It's that time of year once again -- time for a new Google Pixel phone. Google officially announced the Pixel 8a this week, and the phone is exactly as the rumors predicted. It has a slightly refined design, a new chipset, and an improved display.

At first glance, the Google Pixel 8a might come off as a bit boring. It's a budget smartphone that's technically inferior to its Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro siblings from 2023, and compared to the Pixel 7a, it's not all that different. It can be easy to dismiss the Pixel 8a, but when you consider all of its specs, features, and unchanged price, I don't think there's anything boring about it. In fact, I think it's pretty damn exciting.
Subtle (but important) upgrades

Read more
Does the Google Pixel 8a have a headphone jack?

The Google Pixel 8a is the latest and greatest in Google’s midrange A-series smartphone lineup. It costs an affordable $499, but boasts many features that make Pixel phones so popular, including great camera hardware, a Tensor G3 chip, and a 120Hz refresh rate on its 6.1-inch OLED display. All of this makes it a great option for most people who aren’t looking for cutting-edge specs.

However, you might be wondering if it comes with a headphone jack so you can use it with wired earbuds. Smartphone manufacturers have increasingly eliminated this feature in favor of pushing customers to their own line of Bluetooth earbuds and headphones. Does this also apply to the Pixel 8a? Here’s the deal.
Does the Pixel 8a have a headphone jack?

Read more
Is the Google Pixel 8a waterproof?

Google's Pixel A series is an oddball compared to other midrange phones. Besides some mediocre features that fit the price, the A series phones surprisingly share some other attributes with their more premium siblings.

The all-new Google Pixel 8a is alike in this regard and shares such things as the Tensor G3 chip, wireless charging, and seven years of software support from Google. It's also the first A-series Pixel to get a 120Hz display. But if you're wondering whether or not the Pixel 8a is waterproof, here's what you need to know.
Is the Google Pixel 8a waterproof?

Read more