Whispers from internal testing suggest that Google is quietly experimenting with a MediaTek-built modem, potentially signalling a major shift in its Pixel hardware strategy. Early information points to this new modem being integrated into the upcoming Tensor G6 chipset, which is reportedly powering next year’s Pixel 11 lineup.
| Image credit: Google
- Google is testing a MediaTek modem for its upcoming Tensor G6 chip, hinting at a shift from Samsung hardware.
- The Pixel 11 may feature MediaTek’s M90 modem, promising faster speeds and improved battery efficiency.
- Early trials show better power management and connectivity with MediaTek’s modem compared to Samsung’s Exynos 5400.
- The MediaTek M90 supports 5G-Advanced speeds up to 12Gbps and dual-SIM dual-active capability for stronger network performance.
- If approved, the Pixel 11 could debut Google’s first Tensor chip paired with a MediaTek modem, redefining Android flagship standards.
Whispers from internal testing suggest that Google is quietly experimenting with a MediaTek-built modem, potentially signalling a major shift in its Pixel hardware strategy. Early information points to this new modem being integrated into the upcoming Tensor G6 chipset, which is reportedly powering next year’s Pixel 11 lineup.
The chip itself, known internally as 'Malibu', is said to be a major overhaul from the Tensor G5 that currently drives the Pixel 10 generation. While the existing chipset relies on Samsung’s modem, the next iteration could be Google’s first attempt at pairing a Tensor chip with MediaTek’s networking technology. The tests are understood to be taking place within Google’s development labs under restricted conditions.
The modem under trial is believed to be the MediaTek M90 — the same one that drew attention at Mobile World Congress 2025 for its speed and energy efficiency. Its architecture reportedly offers higher bandwidth capacity while consuming less power compared to the Exynos 5400 used in the Pixel 10 series.
If Google decides to proceed with MediaTek for the Pixel 11, the change could mark a turning point for battery longevity across the lineup. Persistent power drain linked to past modem inefficiencies might finally see relief with this switch. Sources familiar with the test build claim that power efficiency and network reliability have shown measurable improvement during early trials.
The M90 modem adheres to the 3GPP Release-17 standard and aligns with the upcoming 5G-Advanced (R18) specifications. On paper, it delivers downlink speeds reaching 12Gbps and up to a 20 percent gain in uplink throughput. MediaTek has also touted dual-SIM dual-active capability and extensive carrier aggregation across both mmWave and sub-6GHz bands, placing it among the most versatile modems on the market.
Moreover, the company asserts a near-fifth reduction in power consumption compared to its previous generation of 5G chips, a factor that could play a decisive role in extending screen-on time for Pixel devices. Google’s Tensor G6, meanwhile, is being produced using TSMC’s advanced N3P process node, which should complement the modem’s efficiency gains with enhanced processing power.
Despite these promising details, it remains uncertain whether the real-world experience will match the lab numbers. Google has yet to confirm whether the MediaTek modem will appear in the final retail version of the Pixel 11 series, but the ongoing tests hint strongly at the company’s intent to diversify beyond Samsung’s foundry.
For now, enthusiasts and analysts alike are watching closely. If Google finalises the switch, the Pixel 11 could become the first major flagship to blend a Tensor chip with MediaTek’s most advanced connectivity hardware — a partnership that might redefine performance expectations for Android users.