Pixel Performance Boost: Google’s Tensor G6 May Drop Samsung for MediaTek M90 Modem

MediaTek M90 Modem

7th October 2025, Kathmandu

The competitive landscape of custom smartphone silicon is heating up, and a major shift is reportedly on the horizon for Google’s Pixel series.

MediaTek M90 Modem

Fresh leaks indicate that the Tensor G6 chip will feature a MediaTek M90 Modem, a move that signifies Google’s potential decision to entirely drop its long-time partner, Samsung, for this crucial component.

This switch from the previous Samsung modem is primarily driven by a push for enhanced connectivity, superior thermal management, and improved power efficiency in next-generation Pixel flagships.

This key change comes after Google already transitioned the primary manufacturing of its Tensor G5 chip (found in the Pixel 10) from Samsung to TSMC, signaling a progressive reduction in reliance on the Korean tech giant.

The modem, which handles all cellular connectivity, remains a critical component that has often drawn criticism in past Pixel generations.

The Push for Power Efficiency

Google has been actively seeking ways to make its custom silicon run cooler and more efficiently. Previous generations of Tensor chips faced complaints related to thermal issues and battery performance, especially during heavy 5G usage.

Addressing these issues appears to be a core strategy for the upcoming Tensor G6. The rumored adoption of the MediaTek M90 Modem aligns perfectly with this objective.

When MediaTek debuted the M90 at MWC 2025, the company emphasized its design focus on power conservation.

The modem is engineered to “enhance power efficiency and device performance,” suggesting it can deliver the critical improvements Google seeks to resolve long-standing consumer complaints.

This increased efficiency will be vital for a flagship device expected to compete in a demanding market.

MediaTek M90: A Technical Deep Dive

The MediaTek M90 is not just an incremental update; it represents a leap forward in 5G-Advanced connectivity. Its impressive specifications make it a formidable alternative to Samsung’s Exynos modem.

The M90 boasts a peak downlink performance of up to 12Gbps. More significantly for daily user experience, it includes advanced features like integrated AI models.

These models are designed to analyze data traffic patterns and device usage scenarios to smartly optimize power consumption and connectivity.

In practical terms, this means the modem can intelligently manage its power draw, potentially leading to noticeable gains in battery life on the Pixel 11 series. Furthermore, the M90 supports dual 5G SIM dual-active features and crucial satellite connectivity.

Moving Beyond Samsung

Google’s relationship with Samsung for its Tensor chips started when the search giant first entered the semi-custom silicon space.

However, as Google’s ambitions for the Pixel line grew, the need for components that offered best-in-class performance and efficiency became paramount. The shift to TSMC for the Tensor G5’s manufacturing process was the first sign of diversification.

Now, the rumored adoption of the MediaTek M90 Modem for the G6 completes the picture of Google strategically moving its hardware development towards partners who can deliver a higher bar for performance and efficiency.

This decision is less about maintaining a single-partner strategy and more about selecting the best-performing components available to craft a premium smartphone experience.

The Future of the Pixel Flagship

The move to the MediaTek M90 Modem is part of a broader strategy for the Tensor G6. Reports also suggest the Tensor G6 could be manufactured using TSMC’s cutting-edge 2nm process.

If realized, this combination—a 2nm process for the main chip paired with a highly efficient MediaTek modem—could position the Pixel 11 as one of the most efficient and cool-running flagships on the market.

This strategic switch could finally equip the Pixel series with the robust connectivity and battery life its high-end rivals already boast.

For Google, the message is clear: the focus is on optimizing the overall user experience by actively seeking out components that deliver tangible benefits in key areas like power and network performance.

The MediaTek M90 Modem appears to be a crucial piece in Google’s plan to elevate the Tensor platform and make the Pixel 11 their most polished flagship to date.

For more: MediaTek M90 Modem