Google’s Pixel 6 – and other future Pixel devices – will reportedly be equipped with the GS101 silicone, the company’s personal system on a slide (SoC). If true, it could shake up the status quo and further threaten Qualcomm’s dominance in the mobile market. We think this is an exciting prospect, but we wanted to know: Are you looking forward to Google’s personal chip for the Pixel 6?
Using a custom SoC is probably cheaper than buying a chip from Qualcomm or Samsung, which could result in lower prices for 2021 Pixels. Including more software and hardware can increase the speed, performance, and battery life of Google’s Pixel devices. Most importantly, it could also mean longer software support, as Google – and not another silicone vendor – would have control over updating drivers. Apple’s range of iPhones, iPads and Macs is an excellent example of what can be achieved with more integrated software and hardware.
The introduction of a custom SoC could also enable Google to integrate its Titan M security chip and Visual Core, the latter enabling more advanced camera capabilities. Google’s Pixel series has always relied on its camera prowess, and the potential for an even more powerful experience will surely divert attention from Google’s more popular competitors.
The launch of GS101 could be the first step towards a future where all of Google’s Pixel smartphones are powered by a custom chip. Finally, Google’s custom chips can also power their own Chromebooks. As we mentioned, Apple has already created custom chips for its iPhones, iPads and Macs. Soon, the entire Mac series from the Cupertino company will drop Intel for its M-series chips.
At this point, the growing evidence suggests that it will be a matter of when, not if, Google launches its own personal SoC. What do you hope to see if that happens? For those who have never owned a Pixel device, would a Pixel 6 equipped with the GS101 chip make you consider Google’s next smartphone? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below.