The Google Pixel lineup has been a popular choice among smartphone enthusiasts, known for its exceptional camera capabilities and seamless integration with Google’s software. With each new iteration, Google aims to push the boundaries of innovation and deliver an unparalleled user experience. The next-gen Google Pixel 8 is no exception, and at the heart of this flagship device lies the highly anticipated Tensor G3 processor. This article will cover the details of the processor of the Pixel 8, the Tensor G3, exploring its features and performance.

What processor does the Pixel 8 use?

The Google Pixel 8 will use the Tensor G3 processor. The Tensor G3 is the successor to the Tensor G2, which powered a range of Google products, including the Pixel 7, Tablet and the first-generation Pixel Fold. Being the latest processor, the Tensor G3 is bringing plenty of advancements in performance and efficiency. The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro will be the first devices to feature the Tensor G3 chip, codenamed “Zuma.”

According to Google, the Tensor G3 chip has had every major subsystem upgraded, focusing on pushing forward the Pixel’s capability of on-device AI. Therefore, the Tensor G3 features the latest CPU configurations compared to its predecessor, the Tensor G2. Android Authority suggests that the Tensor G3 will utilize nine cores in total: a 1x Cortex-X3 core clocked at 3.0GHz, accompanied by 4x Cortex-A715 cores running at 2.45GHz and 4x Cortex-A510 cores operating at 2.15GHz. This configuration promises improved performance, potentially rivaling the current Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. It also features an upgraded GPU, a new ISP and Imaging DSP, and Google’s next-gen TPU.

Also, the Tensor G3 is rumored to feature an Arm Immortalis G715 GPU, offering a significant upgrade over the Tensor G2’s Arm Mali-G710 GPU. The G715 GPU is rumored to deliver a 15% ISO-process performance gain and 2x machine learning improvement compared to its predecessor. The increased core count and improved performance of the G715 GPU should provide a noticeable boost in gaming capabilities for the Pixel 8.

Is Google Tensor better than Snapdragon?

When it comes to mobile devices, Google Tensor and Snapdragon are among the leading and most powerful processors you'll find today. Google Tensor is owned by Google, while Snapdragon is owned by Qualcomm. Both processors are very fast when it comes to performance. But is one better than the other?

Well, both processors have their pros and cons and offer excellent performance, and there’s no clear winner. However, the arrival of Google Tensor G3 might end up giving Google Tensor a leap in terms of efficiency and performance. Ultimately, Tensor chips are crafted with the intention of leveraging Google’s AI expertise to build brand-new smartphone experiences. For the Pixel 8, we’ve got improved AI camera features, real-time language translation, and Google Assistant that can run Pixel Call Assist, which can even answer the phone for you!

Final thoughts

The Google Tensor G3 processor is shaping up to look like it could be boosting the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro with a big performance boost and handy AI tools, as well as a CPU and GPU upgrade with the potential of ray tracing support. In response to the official launch of the device, we’ve also been covering commonly asked questions about the new device, such as the Pixel 8 size and weight, and the Pixel 8’s battery life.

About the Author

Marla Broadway

Marla writes across a wide range of topics across PC Guide, including AI, PC hardware, and news on the latest tech releases. She's a passionate writer that's interested in the future of technology.