Google’s Pixel 11 series may match iPhones with key security upgrade
Rumors suggest Tensor G6 will bring new Titan
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There are plenty of fans still wondering why the Pixel 10a entered the phone market with Google’s Tensor G4 processor rather than the G5. We’re among those who would have liked the newer iteration, but the company’s Pixel 11 lineup could actually get a major upgrade.
Rumors suggest that the Pixel 11 family of phones will use Google’s Tensor G6 processor. However, that’s not the key bit of news. The latest leaks report that the Tensor G6 will include the Titan M3 chip, a new security co-processor that can help the Pixel 11 family match Apple for security.
Tensor G6 and Titan M3?
According to Mystic Leaks (via 9to5Google), the Tensor G6 plus Titan M3 pairing is being worked on. The M3 is purportedly targeting the G6 (codenamed Google Epic), running firmware known as “longjing”. The key information here is that Google wants to compete with Apple’s Secure Enclave.
The Secure Enclave is essentially a separate processor (co-processor) in Apple devices designed specifically to handle sensitive information. Google’s Titan chip is designed with the same idea, but Apple has held the edge in previous generations of devices.
Obviously, Google doesn’t want to lag in developing its own SoC solutions, and it’s interesting to see such rumors appearing even if security co-processors are a bit of a nebulous topic. Certainly, user device security is critically important, and Google won’t want Pixel devices to be seen as ‘lesser’.
Pixel 10a a cost blip?
The initial Pixel 11 devices are reportedly planned for a summer release. In the meantime, we’re still a little surprised at the processor of the Pixel 10a. The likelihood is that the Tensor G4 choice was cost-related. But by the time the summer comes around, the new G6 should be the focus.
