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Tensor G6 explained: What Google’s chip actually means for your Pixel
The newly announced Pixel 11 series all run on the same Tensor G6 chip – Google’s latest mobile processor.
But what is Tensor G6 and how does it differ from its predecessors? Will Tensor G6 be faster and better than before?
We explain everything we know about Google Tensor G6, including how it compares to its competitors and where its strengths are likely to lie.
For more on the Pixel 11 series, visit our Pixel 11 vs Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro vs Pixel 11 Pro Fold and Pixel 11 Pro vs Pixel 11 Pro XL guides. Finally, if you want more of an overview on our current favourite devices, our best smartphone guide has you covered.
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What is Tensor G6?
Tensor G6 is Google’s latest mobile chip that’s found within the entire Pixel 11 line-up, from the entry-level Pixel 11 to the Pixel 11 Pro Fold. Google promises that Tensor G6 is its “fastest, most powerful chip yet”, with an upgraded CPU that claims 25% faster web browsing and 15% quicker app launches than last year’s Tensor G5 processor.
Although it promises to be faster than before, you shouldn’t expect its performance to match the likes of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 or Apple’s A19 chips. Like previous Tensor iterations, Google prioritises AI smarts over processing power and speed, as it is designed to run advanced AI models – specifically Gemini Nano.
In fact, Tensor G6 sports the latest Gemini Nano model, and Google claims it can process on-device AI tasks up to 3.5 times faster while using up to 3.5 times less energy than its predecessor. That means we can expect Gemini Intelligence tools to run quickly and smoothly too.
Tensor G6 also powers some of Google’s “most advanced” camera experiences, including Pro Zoom which allows you to get up to 120x closer – although only the Pixel 11 Pro and 11 Pro XL support this. Not only that, but Tensor G6 has an upgraded ISP (Image Signal Processor) that promises to improve low light photography and enable Night Sight to capture shots faster, without losing quality. Of course, the handsets’ sensors also play a part in this.
Is Tensor G6 good for gaming?
As we haven’t reviewed the Tensor G6 yet, we can’t confirm whether or not it’s good for gaming. However, considering we found Tensor G5 struggled when loading games, we don’t expect Tensor G6 to compete with the best gaming phones.
Essentially, we found that although the Tensor G5 could power games, the Pixel 10 in particular became quite warm in the process and drained battery faster too. It was a similar story with the Pixel 10 Pro XL which handled casual games but struggled with more intensive titles like Wuthering Waves and Genshin Impact.
Will Tensor G6 be faster?
Google promises that Tensor G6 will be 25% faster than Tensor G5 at web browsing and 15% faster at launching apps too. In addition, it claims to run on-device AI tasks up to 3.5 times faster too.
We should disclaim that we haven’t reviewed any of the Pixel 11 series yet, so haven’t tested Tensor G6 for ourselves just yet. Once we do, we’ll be able to verify these claims.
