When Google introduced its first Tensor chipset with the Pixel 6, its intentions were pretty clear: to grow independent of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon (or any other chipset vendor) and to build experiences that would otherwise be impossible. While we’re still waiting for the Pixel 8 series and its accompanying third-generation Tensor G3 processor, Google’s chips have already delivered some impressive features that would likely be impossible on other chipsets, especially in AI and image processing.
All of this, however, was somewhat undermined by the fact that Tensor chips have, so far, been designed in collaboration with Samsung. While they feature parts built by Google, major aspects of their design are derived from Samsung’s Exynos chips.