“`html
SAN FRANCISCO – According to recent reports, Google‘s decision to switch from Samsung to TSMC for teh Tensor G5 chip in the upcoming Pixel 10 series has reportedly come as a “shock” to Samsung, prompting a re-evaluation of their foundry operations.
For several years,Google has relied on Samsung to manufacture custom Tensor chipsets for its Pixel devices.While progress has been made, Google is transitioning towards a fully custom design produced by TSMC. The Tensor G5, set to debut in the Pixel 10 series later this year, will be the first Google chip manufactured by TSMC, which also produces chips for Qualcomm, MediaTek, and Apple.
The Bell reported that this shift was a “shock” to Samsung (via @Jukanlosreve).
Samsung is reportedly conducting an internal review to analyse “the case” of Google’s switch to TSMC. This analysis, referred to internally as “the google incident,” is intended to serve as a wake-up call for Samsung’s foundry efforts.According to an industry insider, “losing Google is a case that shows the complex problems of Samsung Foundry at once” and that “there are many discussions and concerns going on internally as well.”
The report suggests that “Google’s desired performance and functions were diversifying,” and Samsung’s “lack of semiconductor design assets” contributed to Google’s decision to partner with TSMC. Samsung’s ongoing challenges with 3nm process yield have also been a factor.
Google is not the only company moving away from Samsung. Reports from late May indicated that Samsung is facing difficulties in attracting customers for its chips due to TSMC’s superior yield.TSMC’s yield is reportedly around 90% for its 3nm process, while Samsung’s is approximately 50%.
Although Google will not be using Samsung for its Tensor chipset, the Pixel 10 is still expected to incorporate a Samsung modem, according to recent leaks.
Google Tensor Chip Progress
“Losing Google is a case that shows the complex problems of Samsung Foundry at once.”
