Google says Pixel 11’s new MediaTek modem is ‘faster and more power efficient’

The Pixel 11 series features Google's upgraded Tensor G6 chipset, which introduces a new MediaTek-made modem, according to the company's claims on its website. Google has some valid criticisms of its Tensor processors in the past, but a major issue has historically been the modem's performance. To address this, Google made significant strides with subsequent generations, particularly by the time of Pixel 8 and Tensor G3.

Last year's Tensor G5 was the first entirely self-developed and TSMC-made chip, but still utilized a Samsung modem. The modem in the Pixel 11 series and Tensor G6 is MediaTek-made, confirmed by FCC listings and baseband data on the devices. Google has been rumored to be switching to this modem for months and has directly stated its benefits.

The company asserts that the new modem is reliable, faster, and more power-efficient. The claims are based on pre-production devices tested in controlled lab conditions, but Google remains optimistic about the improvements. Unlike Samsung modems, which have historically led to performance, battery drain, and overheating problems, Google anticipates the Pixel 11 with this new modem to address these issues more effectively. However, the real-world performance will need to be evaluated.