Google Tensor G4 processor, the heart of the Pixel 9 series, was expected to deliver a big leap in performance and AI capabilities. While it certainly refines Google vision of AI-first smartphones, benchmark results and thermal issues suggest the chip may not be the flagship killer some had hoped for.
What Is Tensor G4?
The Tensor G4 is the latest in Google custom in-house processor lineup, succeeding the Tensor G3. Built on Samsung 4nm process, the chip aims to combine solid CPU performance with advanced AI integration.
Key Specs at a Glance
- CPU: 1x Cortex-X4 prime core, 3x Cortex-A720, 4x Cortex-A520
- GPU: ARM Mali-based graphics (faster than G3’s)
- AI Engine: 3rd-gen Tensor Processing Unit (TPU)
- Process: Samsung 4nm node
- Connectivity: Exynos 5400 modem with 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.x, satellite support
Benchmark Performance
CPU Performance
In benchmark testing, the Tensor G4 delivers solid single-core and multi-core results, but still falls short of Qualcomm’ Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Apple A17 Pro. It performs well in short bursts but struggles with sustained workloads, often throttling under heavy gaming or video rendering.
Thermal Management
Heat remains one of Tensor biggest weaknesses. Stress tests show that the G4 can lose nearly 50% of its processing power under prolonged use, highlighting Google ongoing thermal challenges.
GPU Tests
On the graphics side, the G4 handles modern games reasonably well, but stability drops below 60% in long sessions, suggesting power and heat limitations.
AI and Machine Learning Performance
Where Google chip shines is in AI-powered features. The upgraded TPU accelerates tools like:
- Magic Eraser and AI photo editing
- Live Translate in calls and chats
- Voice-to-text and transcription
- AI-powered battery optimization
However, in raw AI benchmark scores, the G4 still lags behind Apple’ Neural Engine and Qualcomm Hexagon DSP.
Strengths of the Tensor G4
✅ Deep AI Integration: Perfectly tuned for Pixel-exclusive features.
✅ Modern Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 and satellite communication support.
✅ Balanced Day-to-Day Use: Efficient for browsing, apps, and media.
Weaknesses Holding It Back
❌ Thermal Throttling: Performance drops sharply under heavy load.
❌ Benchmark Gap: Trails far behind Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Apple A17 Pro.
❌ AI Limitations: Strong in Google apps, weaker in raw AI horsepower.
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: Offers better sustained performance and handles gaming with less throttling.
- Apple A17 Pro: Leads in efficiency and AI benchmarks, setting the gold standard for smartphone chips.
Where Google competes is ecosystem integration. The G4 may not be the most powerful, but it’s uniquely optimized for Google AI-driven Pixel features, from smarter photography to advanced call screening.
Looking Ahead: Tensor G5
Analysts suggest that Google is saving its big leap for the Tensor G5, which will reportedly be manufactured on TSMC 3nm process. Early leaks point to custom CPU and GPU cores designed fully in-house, potentially putting Google on par with Apple and Qualcomm in raw power.
Until then, Pixel 9 users will enjoy the AI-rich experience Tensor chips are known for, but those chasing sheer performance may look elsewhere.
