Google Pixel 11 may debut TSMC 2nm chip before iPhone 18

[Daniel Nenni]

Early 2nm debut: Pixel 11’s Tensor G6 may be the first smartphone chip using TSMC’s 2nm process, launching ahead of Apple’s iPhone 18.
Modem switch: FCC filings suggest Google will replace Samsung’s Exynos modem with MediaTek’s M90, aiming to fix connectivity and battery issues.
August launch: Google will unveil the Pixel 11 lineup and Pixel Watch 5 on August 12, with leaks revealing design tweaks and new color options.

Google aims to beat Apple to 2nm milestone​

Multiple reports indicate that Google’s Tensor G6 will be built on TSMC’s 2nm process, making the Pixel 11 series the first flagship phones to ship with this technology. Apple’s A20 chips for the iPhone 18 are expected to follow about a month later. While Google has historically trailed Apple in adopting cutting-edge nodes, this timing could give Pixel a rare first-mover advantage in marketing and perceived innovation. PhoneArena + 4

Strategic hardware shift away from Samsung​

FCC filings for the Pixel 11 family reference MediaTek modem algorithms, reinforcing leaks that Google will replace Samsung’s Exynos modem with MediaTek’s M90. This change, combined with the Tensor G6’s move to TSMC manufacturing, signals a complete break from Samsung’s modem and chip design dependency. The M90 promises up to 12Gbps 5G, satellite connectivity, dual active SIMs, and AI-driven power management, addressing long-standing Pixel reception and battery complaints. T3 + 3

Samsung’s modems are the main culprit behind the weak signals, dropped connections, and idle battery drain that recent Pixel owners constantly report. MediaTek’s M90 modem is built to fix exactly that. On paper, it brings a lot to the table: support for 5G speeds up to 12 Gbps, satellite connectivity, dual-active 5G SIM support, and AI-driven power management. But more importantly, it offers efficiency.

Design refinements and new variants​

Leaked images and Amazon listings show the Pixel 11 Pro Fold in new Pine and Midnight colors, with a repositioned LED flash and elongated camera glass possibly accommodating larger sensors. The broader Pixel 11 lineup will offer multiple colorways, with some models rumored to be thinner and lighter. Despite modest hardware changes, the focus appears to be on incremental refinements and aesthetic variety. T3 + 2

Scenario analysis: implications of early 2nm adoption​

If Google ships the first TSMC 2nm phone, it could temporarily shift the perception of Pixel as a technology leader, especially in AI-driven features that benefit from power efficiency. In one scenario, early adoption boosts Pixel sales and brand prestige, pressuring Apple to emphasize other differentiators in the iPhone 18. In another, modest real-world performance gains and limited market share mean the lead is largely symbolic, with Apple and Qualcomm reclaiming the spotlight by year-end. applemagazine.com + 2.

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[Daniel Nenni]

I was waiting for this. TSMC N2 is the first node Apple does not have a lock on. I was betting on QCOM to beat Apple or MediaTek but the Google design team is more than capable and deserves the recognition. TSMC N2 wins again!