Google Pixel Fold 2: Skipping Tensor G3 for Tensor G4, Boosting RAM

Google entered the market with the release of the Pixel Fold in the part of 2023. There are now indications that the tech giant, from Mountain View is actively working on a successor possibly called the Pixel Fold 2.

Speculations suggest that the Pixel foldable devices will ditch the Tensor chipset used in their predecessor and instead opt for the Tensor G4 chipset. It’s worth noting that the original Pixel Fold was powered by the Tensor G2 SoC.

More About the Google Pixel Fold 2

Reports from Android Authority indicate that Google’s next foldable device could be powered by the Tensor G4 chipset avoiding a leap in chipset technology. Currently, Google’s flagship Pixel 8 series runs on the Tensor G3 SoC.

The anticipated Google Tensor G4 chipset is expected to be utilized in both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro models. Sources reveal that internal testing has been conducted on prototypes of the Pixel Fold 2 over months. While earlier versions featured Google’s ‘zuma’ codenamed Tensor G3 chipset recent iterations have transitioned to using ‘zumapro,’ which is based on the Tensor G4 chipset.

Furthermore, insider information suggests that certain prototypes of the Pixel Fold 2 boast specifications such as 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB UFS 4.0 storage—an improvement compared to the years model, with its 12GB LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. The Pixel Fold 2 is said to be, in the Engineering Validation Test (EVT) stage, which suggests that there are rounds of improvements before it goes into Mass Production (MP).

Google has previously made chipset upgrades during testing phases so this wouldn’t be a practice, for them. Notably, the initial Pixel Tablet prototype was equipped with the Tensor G1 chipset but ultimately shipped with the second-generation G2 SoC in the commercial variant. A similar scenario could unfold with the Pixel Fold 2.

If Google indeed opts for the latest G4 SoC for the Pixel Fold 2, it could potentially alter the device’s launch timeline. Historically, Google unveils new Tensor chipsets during its hardware event in October, coinciding with the launch of new Pixel phones. For instance, the original Pixel Fold debuted with Tensor G2 during the Google I/O 2023 event in May, while the Pixel 8 series was introduced in October with the Tensor G3 chipset.

The Google Tensor G4 chipset is speculated to feature ARM Cortex-X4, A720, and A520 CPU cores, with rumors suggesting Samsung as the fabricator. There are also murmurs that Google might transition to TSMC for the Tensor G5 in 2025.