The next-generation foldable smartphone from Google is coming, but rumors are saying that the Pixel Fold 2 will come later than expected, seeing a delay as it awaits the new SoC from the company, the Tensor G4. It is known that the latest chipset equipped for the Pixel Fold's first release was the Tensor G2, seeing as it will make a jump from that line, to the new G4.
Google's Tensor will also see the switch to a new chip developer, particularly that of its famed rival, Apple, with TSMC working on this new processor.
Pixel Fold 2 to See a Later Release Date with Tensor G4
Google
Android Authority reported a new development on the Pixel Fold 2's arrival, saying that it may opt for the Tensor G4 chip and skip last year's Tensor G3. It was also mentioned that the Tensor G4 coming this year will feature "minimal" upgrades only compared to the last-gen chipset, but it will arrive with 16GB of RAM right out of the box, the most for all of Pixel's lineup.
Moreover, the report claimed that the new foldable from Google was already subjected to testing, and already equipped with the Tensor G4.
However, it will likely see a later release date than expected, not yet ready when Google launches its I/O 2024 event.
On the other hand, Google's plans for 2025 will be massive, as it will switch from Samsung's manufacturing to the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). Through this, the new Tensor will use TSMC's chips, unknown if it will be able to use the 3nm chips which is its latest process now.
This new TSMC-made Tensor remains nameless, but if it follows the lineup, it will be the G5, looking to see a boost in its power and performance.
Google's Renowned Tensor Chips for Pixel
Back in 2021, Google opted for designing its chip which it called the Tensor, centering on an SoC that brings significant features to its Pixel devices, meant for its optimization of their tech. Initially, Google's Pixel used the renowned smartphone chips from Qualcomm, particularly the flagship Snapdragon series for the earlier versions of the devices.
Since then, Google used its Tensor chips to bring power to its smartphones, steering away from the Snapdragon series, mainly because of the Google chip's renowned focus on offering Android integration. This was an ideal change for Google as it befitted its Pixel lineup, with the company continuing its development of the Tensor, partnering with Samsung to bring the processor to its devices.
However, it seems like Google wants to tap into TSMC for the future of its Tensor development starting in 2025, particularly with the future Tensors that are slated for that year. The new rumor also claims that Google's development of the Pixel Fold 2 will opt for the G4 with slight improvements, and may be expected to bring the upgrade by next year, along with its upgrades.
