Pixel Phones With Custom Exynos Chips: What to Know

Yes, Google has used custom Exynos-based chipsets in Pixel phones, and it is likely to continue doing so for future models. The Tensor chips inside Pixel 6 and later are co-designed with Samsung and built on Samsung’s Exynos architecture, though Google customizes the CPU, GPU, and AI components. This article explains how the partnership works, what it means for performance and battery life, and whether you should care when buying a Pixel.

Background: Why Google Left Qualcomm

For years, Pixel phones used Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. That changed in 2021 with the Pixel 6 series, which introduced the Google Tensor chip. Google said it wanted a chip designed around its own software features, especially on-device AI and machine learning, rather than buying a general-purpose chip from Qualcomm.

The Tensor chip is not built from scratch. It is based on Samsung’s Exynos processor design, and Samsung Foundry manufactures it. Google contributes its own IP, including the Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) for AI tasks and the Image Signal Processor (ISP) for camera processing. So while the chip is “custom” in the sense that Google controls the final design, it shares the same underlying architecture and modem as Samsung’s Exynos chips.

How the Exynos-Tensor Partnership Works

Google and Samsung have a multi-year agreement. Samsung provides the Exynos base design, including the CPU cores (typically Arm Cortex cores) and the modem. Google then modifies the chip layout, adds its own accelerators, and tunes the software. The result is a chip that is neither a pure Exynos nor a pure Google design, but a hybrid.

For example, the Tensor G2 in Pixel 7 uses a 5nm process, and the Tensor G3 in Pixel 8 uses a 4nm process. Both are made by Samsung Foundry. The Tensor G4 in Pixel 9 continues this trend. Google has also said it will use TSMC for some future chips, which could mean a shift away from Exynos for certain models, but the current generation relies on Samsung’s manufacturing.

Performance: Benchmarks vs. Real-World Use

In synthetic benchmarks, Tensor chips typically score lower than Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 series and Apple’s A-series chips. For example, the Tensor G3’s multi-core Geekbench score is around 4,000, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 scores around 7,000. However, in everyday use, Pixel phones feel fast because Google optimizes the software heavily for the chip.

Where Tensor excels is in AI tasks. Features like Magic Eraser, Real Tone, and Live Translate run on-device and are faster than on Snapdragon phones. The trade-off is that heavy gaming and prolonged video rendering can cause the phone to throttle more quickly than competitors, because the Exynos-based chip runs hotter.

Battery Life and Efficiency

One common complaint about Pixel phones with Tensor chips is battery life. The Exynos modem, in particular, has been criticized for drawing more power than Qualcomm’s modems, especially in areas with weak signal. Users report that Pixel phones drain battery faster than similar Snapdragon phones when on cellular data.

Google has tried to mitigate this with software updates and adaptive battery features, but the hardware efficiency gap remains. If you are a heavy user who streams video over 5G all day, a Pixel with Tensor may not last as long as a Snapdragon-based phone with the same battery capacity.

Comparisons: Tensor vs. Snapdragon vs. Apple

When comparing Tensor to its rivals, the differences are clear:

• CPU: Tensor uses Arm cores similar to Snapdragon, but often with older or lower-clocked cores. This results in lower peak performance.
• GPU: Tensor’s GPU is based on Arm Mali, while Snapdragon uses Adreno. Mali GPUs are generally less efficient for gaming.
• AI: Tensor’s TPU is a major advantage. It can run complex ML models faster than Snapdragon’s Hexagon DSP.
• Modem: Tensor uses Samsung’s Exynos modem, which has had connectivity issues in the past. Snapdragon uses Qualcomm’s modem, which is more mature.

Apple’s A-series chips still lead in raw CPU and GPU performance and efficiency, but they do not have the same AI focus as Tensor.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

A frequent misconception is that Tensor is just a rebranded Exynos chip. That is not accurate. While the base design is Exynos, Google replaces or reconfigures key components. For instance, the Tensor G2 uses a different TPU than any Exynos chip, and the image signal processor is custom.

Another issue is thermal throttling. Pixel phones have a reputation for getting warm during video calls or navigation. This is partly due to the Exynos architecture and partly due to the phone’s thin design. Google has improved cooling in recent models, but it is still not as good as some gaming phones.

Connectivity problems, such as dropped calls or slow data, have been reported on Pixel 6 and 7. These are often traced to the Exynos modem. Google has released updates to improve stability, but some users still experience issues in rural areas.

Costs and Availability

Using Exynos-based chips helps Google reduce costs compared to buying Snapdragon chips from Qualcomm. This is one reason Pixel phones are often priced lower than flagship phones from Samsung or Apple. However, the cost savings are not always passed to consumers, as Google invests heavily in camera hardware and software.

In terms of availability, Pixel phones are sold in more countries now than before, but they are still not available everywhere. If you live outside the US, Europe, or Japan, you may not be able to buy a Pixel officially, which limits the choice for many users.

Alternatives to Pixel Phones

If you are concerned about Exynos-based performance or battery life, consider these alternatives:

• Samsung Galaxy S series: Uses Snapdragon in the US and Exynos in other regions. The Exynos versions have similar pros and cons to Tensor.
• Google Pixel with Snapdragon: Older models like Pixel 5 use Snapdragon. They are cheaper but do not have the latest AI features.
• Other Android phones: OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Motorola use Snapdragon chips, which offer better raw performance and efficiency.
• iPhone: If you value battery life and performance above all, Apple’s chips are the best in class.

Choosing a phone is not just about the chip. Software updates, camera quality, and ecosystem matter. Pixel phones get updates for seven years, which is longer than most Android phones.

Future Outlook: Will Google Stick With Exynos?

There are reports that Google will use TSMC for the Tensor G5, which could mean a move away from Samsung’s Exynos base. If that happens, the chip may be more efficient and cooler. However, Google has not confirmed this, and the partnership with Samsung could continue for other components.

For now, if you buy a Pixel 8 or 9, you are getting a custom Exynos-based chip. That is not a bad thing if you value AI features and camera software over raw gaming performance. But if you are a power user who needs maximum battery life and sustained performance, you might want to look at Snapdragon or Apple devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tensor chip the same as Samsung’s Exynos?

No. Tensor is based on Exynos architecture, but Google modifies the CPU layout, adds its own TPU, and customizes the ISP. It is a co-designed chip, not a direct rebrand.

Why does my Pixel get hot?

Thermal throttling is common on Tensor-powered Pixels, especially during gaming or video calls. The Exynos-based chip runs hotter than Snapdragon. Keep the phone out of direct sunlight and avoid heavy tasks while charging.

Will future Pixels use Snapdragon again?

Unlikely. Google has invested heavily in Tensor and its AI features. Even if it switches to TSMC for manufacturing, the chip will still be custom, not a Qualcomm product.

Does the Exynos modem cause bad signal?

Some users report weaker signal compared to Snapdragon phones, especially in rural areas. Google has improved this with updates, but it is still a known limitation. If you live in a poor coverage area, check user reviews for your region.

Is Tensor good for gaming?

It is adequate for most games, but not ideal for demanding titles. The GPU is less powerful and throttles faster. For hardcore gaming, a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 phone is a better choice.

Should I wait for the next Pixel?

If you need a new phone now, the current Pixel is fine. If you can wait, the next Tensor chip may be more efficient if Google switches to TSMC. But there is no guarantee, and prices may rise.

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