Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro may use Samsung’s 5G modem instead of Qualcomm’s
Tons of rumors about Google’s upcoming Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro smartphones have already surfaced online. The internet is not short of rumors (most of them unofficial) about the much-anticipated handset.
We have already seen the Pixel 6 series’ would-be design, features, and specs. And there’s another report of what modems will power up these smartphones.
Google will reportedly use Samsung’s own modem instead of Qualcomm –– much to the surprise of everyone, and especially, Qualcomm.
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Samsung’s 5G modem will power up Google’s Pixel 6 series phones
Good news for Samsung… but not so much for Qualcomm.
Google will use Samsung’s own 5G modem for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro, confirming previous reports from the Android 12 beta that suggested that Google might be using Samsung’s Exynos 5123 modem for the Pixel 6 series.
Currently, Qualcomm will continue to supply chipsets for the Pixel 5a. However, Google’s next-generation smartphones will run Google’s in-house Tensor chipset and Samsung’s Exynos 5G modem.
Samsung’s most recent 5G modem is referenced 5123A. Although not confirmed, the model is likely based on the 5G modem used in Exynos versions of the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20. Additionally, it supports both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G.
A report from Reuters corroborated these findings, and also cited sources related to the matter.
“Two sources” confirmed that both Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will use Samsung’s 5G modem instead of Qualcomm’s –– even on handsets to be sold in the United States.
This is huge news especially for Samsung –– it is the first time that Samsung’s modems are used in smartphones sold in the US. Not even Samsung’s own smartphones sold in the US features their very own modems. In fact, Samsung handsets sold in the US use Qualcomm’s chips.
Furthermore, it is also the first time a Samsung modem will be used in a non-Samsung device.
A faster 5G connectivity awaits…
If you have been keeping an eye on the upcoming Pixel 6 series, then this will make you want to get first dibs once it officially launches.
Samsung’s 5G modem will support mmWave connectivity. This is the faster version of 5G and is known for generating amazing speed tests.
Previously, Google already confirmed that the upcoming Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will support mmWave, and Samsung also confirms that its modem will support the same connectivity too.
Yet, none of the companies have confirmed that they are working together.
Remarkably, Qualcomm said in a statement that “a modem is not enough to support millimeter-wave in phones.” This strongly suggests that Samsung will potentially be used in Pixel 6 phones.
Rumored specs…
Google’s Pixel 6 is rumored to feature a 6.4-inch 90Hz flat-screen display, as well as an in-display fingerprint sensor.
The handset will have wireless charging support, pack bottom-firing stereo speakers, and a USB Type-C port. Moreover, it will be available in 8GB of RAM with 128/256GB of storage and a 4,614 mAh battery.
On the other hand, the Pixel 6 Pro’s RAM will boost up to 12GB and 128/256/512GB of internet storage. Finally, it will feature a slightly larger battery at 5,000 mAh.
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