Since Google moved to its own Tensor chipsets with the Pixel 6 in 2021, the company has relied heavily on Samsung’s Exynos platform. Earlier versions of Tensor shared much of their architecture with Exynos, and Samsung Foundry even manufactured the processors for Google.
With the Pixel 10 series, Google began reducing its reliance on Samsung by shifting production of the Tensor G5 from Samsung Foundry to TSMC. Despite the shift, the Tensor G5 continues to use Samsung’s Exynos 5400 modem to handle cellular connectivity.
It now appears, however, that Google is planning to cut ties even further with Samsung in future Tensor chipsets.
Google could move the Tensor G6 modem away from Samsung
According to reliable leaker Mystic Leaks on Telegram, Google has already started internal development of its next-generation Tensor processor, reportedly called Tensor G6 (and codenamed Malibu). The leaker claims Google plans to drop Samsung entirely for the modem, opting instead for MediaTek’s M90.
MediaTek unveiled the M90 modem at MWC 2025, promising downlink speeds of up to 12Gbps and support for both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G networks. MediaTek also claims the modem is more power efficient than rivals, thanks to its use of AI technology.
What’s noteworthy here is that this modem is expected to be both faster and more efficient than the Exynos 5400 currently used in the Pixel 10 series. The switch ultimately suggests Google is working to further reduce its dependence on Samsung products.
Not only that, but the switch to Mediatek’s modem could also bring noticeable improvements to Pixel phones themselves, such as better battery life on the Pixel 11 phones, since the modem is one of the most power-hungry parts of a smartphone.
Of course, it is still early, and much could change before the Pixel 11 series is announced next year. Even so, this leak is especially notable given that Google had reportedly been considering the switch as early as this year.
