The upcoming Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro are gearing up for some significant advancements, with a fresh design overhaul hinted at by previously shared renders. Adding to their allure are two crucial updates projected to make these flagships stand out. A new Exynos 5400 5G modem and satellite connectivity—features that are bound to enhance connectivity and provide additional safety measures—are poised to join the Pixel family.
A Leap in Connectivity: Exynos 5400 5G Modem
Since embracing the custom-designed Tensor processors in 2021, Google’s Pixel smartphones have encountered their share of connectivity hurdles. However, those issues might soon become a distant memory. Reports suggest that both the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro will be equipped with Samsung’s new Exynos 5400 5G modem. Promising faster speeds and optimized power efficiency, this modem is a leap forward from the Exynos 5300 embedded in the older Pixel models.
The modem’s advanced baseband chip is slated to offer improved stability due to a more refined software stack. Most notably, the Exynos 5400 is equipped to support 3GPP Release 17 specifications, unlocking the potential for 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), which essentially means satellite communication capabilities are on the horizon for Pixel devices.
Google’s Step into Satellite SOS Services
Satellite connectivity in mobile phones gained traction when Apple introduced it in the 2022 iPhone 14 series. Now, Google is following through with its own iteration. Partnering with T-Mobile, which has embarked on a collaboration with SpaceX, Google is diligently working on a ‘Satellite SOS’ feature for the Pixel handsets. This feature, enabled by the robust 5G modem, will primarily focus on facilitating two-way messaging, particularly useful in emergency situations when traditional cellular networks might not be available.
The anticipated ‘Emergency SOS’ service through the ‘Satellite Gateway’ app is expected to significantly aid users, especially in remote or dangerous conditions. This text-based communication link to emergency services could become a pivotal lifesaving feature. Now that it’s in the spotlight, the hopes are high that Google will continue to develop and maintain this project well into the future.
Heat and Performance Optimizations with Tensor G4 Chipset
While satellite connectivity and the Exynos 5400 modem are substantial upgrades, there’s also talk around the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro’s chipset advancements. These flagships are likely to be powered by Google’s Tensor G4 processor. The new chipset is rumored to employ Fan-Out Wafer-Level Packaging (FOWLP), similar to the packing technology used by Samsung’s Exynos 2400. This method boasts increased I/O connections, paving the way for accelerated electrical signal transmission, improved performance, and enhanced heat resistance.
The Tensor G4’s thermal management is particularly noteworthy, given the overheating issues experienced with the previous Tensor G3. This improvement could play a significant role in maintaining consistent performance, possibly contributing to an increase in sales for the Pixel 9 series.
As consumers anticipate these updates, the integration of Samsung’s modem technology, coupled with the innovative satellite connectivity, all neatly tied together with an advanced chipset, suggests that Google’s next-generation Pixel phones could set a new benchmark in smartphone technology and user safety.
