Google Pixel 11 series reportedly deals another blow to Samsung. It is said to offer a modem from a competitor

Last year’s transition of Tensor G5 chipset production from Samsung’s factories to TSMC was clearly only the first step towards Google’s independence from the South Korean manufacturer. Although the current Pixel 10 phones already use the 3nm process of the Taiwanese company, they still rely on Exynos 5400i modems from Samsung. However, according to fresh leaks, Google is preparing for another significant step – for the next generation of Pixel 11 phones with the Tensor G6 chipset, it should deploy a completely new MediaTek M90 modem, writes the Telegram channel MysticLeaks.

What do we already know about Tensor G6 and the MediaTek M90 modem?

The channel MysticLeaks recently published information that Google has already begun internal testing of the MediaTek M90 modem for the upcoming Tensor G6 chipset (codenamed “Malibu”).

MediaTek introduced its M90 5G-Advanced modem at MWC 2025 in February this year. This modem meets 3GPP Release 17 specifications and comes with impressive parameters:

• Maximum download speed of up to 12 Gbps
• 20% higher upload speed thanks to 3GPP Release 17 2T-2T Uplink TX technology
• Support for both sub-6GHz (FR1 with up to 6CC-CA) and mmWave (FR2 with up to 10CC-CA) networks
• Dual 5G SIM with dual-active functionality for simultaneous connection
• Integrated support for satellite connectivity

Significantly better energy efficiency

One of the most significant advantages of the new modem is its significantly lower power consumption. MediaTek states that the M90, thanks to integrated UltraSave technology and special AI models, consumes up to 18% less energy than the previous generation. This is crucial information, especially for Pixel users, as modems are among the most power-intensive components in smartphones.

The MediaTek M90 modem also features Modem AI (MMAI) technology, which uses artificial intelligence to identify data patterns and optimize power consumption and latency. It also includes Smart Antenna technology, which, thanks to AI, can accurately identify environmental conditions with 99.5% accuracy and increase data throughput by up to 24%.

What does this mean for future Pixel 11 users?

The switch to a MediaTek modem could mean several significant improvements for Pixel users:

• Longer battery life – lower power consumption of the modem could significantly extend the time between charges
• Faster connection to mobile networks with higher data transfers
• More stable connection thanks to advanced AI algorithms for signal optimization
• Fewer overheating issues – more energy-efficient components generate less heat

Although Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 with the Exynos 5400i modem have already resolved most of the overheating issues that plagued older generations, the switch to MediaTek M90 could mean another step forward. The Pixel 11 could thus become a significantly more attractive alternative to flagships from Chinese manufacturers or iPhones.

When can we expect the Pixel 11?

We can most likely expect the Google Pixel 11 series again in August or September of next year. So far, there is nothing to suggest that the Californian tech giant plans to change the lineup’s composition in any way, so we will probably see three classic models and one foldable again.

Do you expect a significant improvement in battery life from the Pixel 11 with the MediaTek M90 modem?

Sources: MysticLeaks, 9to5Google, Notebookcheck, MediaTek