According to The Information, Google’s aspirations to create entirely unique semiconductors for its Google Pixel phone have run into difficulties. The tech company had planned to switch to its own “Redondo” chip in 2024 from the modified Samsung Exynos chipsets used in the Google Pixel phone. The launch has been postponed until 2025, and Google is currently developing a new proprietary processor with the working name “Laguna.” According to reports, difficulties in personnel retention and development collaboration between US and Indian teams led to the decision to postpone the launch.
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Ambitious Chip Design Plans Google Pixel Phone
Google’s decision to switch to bespoke chip architecture for its Pixel phone was a bold step intended to set them apart from competitors and boost performance. This journey began with the introduction of the Tensor G1 SoC in the Pixel 6 series. Although Google expects to release a fully customized Tensor chip by 2025 and collaborate with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) for production, the reliance on Samsung for chip design and production is expected to alter.
The Delay and Challenges Faced
Insiders claim that Google has delayed the release of its fully customized microprocessor due to a number of reasons. The organization has faced difficulties with personnel retention and synchronizing development efforts across US and Indian teams. The team working on the project has apparently been angered by Google’s choice to halt the development of many Tensor processors during the previous two years.
The Transition from Samsung to TSMC
Google will switch to TSMC for production even though it currently relies on semi-custom Samsung chips. A notable semiconductor manufacturer known for its work on Apple’s iPhone chips is TSMC. By switching to TSMC, Google will be able to use cutting-edge packaging technologies, just like Apple does, for higher power efficiency and thinner chip profiles.
Redondo as a Test Chip
The original Redondo chip, which was originally scheduled for release in 2024, will now be manufactured as a test chip. The new Laguna processor, which is anticipated to be known as the Tensor G5, will be designed with the assistance of this test chip by Tensor engineers. The 3-nanometer technology used by TSMC, which is renowned for its performance and power efficiency, will be used to construct Laguna.
Benefits of Custom Chip Development
For Google, switching to its own in-house bespoke chip development offers a number of possible advantages. The business is able to target particular performance concerns and make personalized adjustments to its semiconductor designs, improving chip performance, power efficiency, and user experience as a whole. Google is able to optimize the CPUs for its Pixel phone and other upcoming gadgets because it has complete control over the design process.
Considerations for Google’s Investment
Custom CPU development is an expensive endeavor, and Google may not have the same market dominance as companies like Samsung and Apple. Google’s investment in customized processors, though, is in line with its long-term objectives and future uses beyond the Google Pixel phone. The chips, which offer distinctive features and capabilities, could be used in other hardware products, such as virtual reality gadgets.
Conclusion
Google’s decision to switch from Samsung to TSMC and delay the full customization of its Tensor chips for the Google Pixel phone represents a turning point in the company’s chip design journey. Google continues to be devoted to creating its own unique chips, despite the delay being attributed to difficulties in personnel retention and development coordination. The action could improve the functionality and performance of the Google Pixel phone and upcoming hardware products. Market participants are eagerly awaiting the results of Google’s ambitious effort as it works towards its target of fully customizable chips by 2025.
Disclaimer:
AI was used to conduct research and help write parts of the article. We primarily use the Gemini model developed by Google AI. While AI-assisted in creating this content, it was reviewed and edited by a human editor to ensure accuracy, clarity, and adherence to Google's webmaster guidelines.
