Google Pixel 9, Fold 2, and Pixel Tablet Rumored to Receive New Samsung Modem with Satellite Connectivity
Google is setting up to introduce its next-generation Pixel devices, including the Pixel 9 lineup, Pixel Fold 2, and Pixel Tablet, all of which will arrive with a new cellular modem.
Google, with its Pixel 7 series, has already jumped on Samsung modems from Qualcomm modems for their Pixel devices. This change corresponds with the Exynos base of the Tensor Processor by Google. Whereas the new modem is sufficient, it has issues with weak signal conditions and also consumes enough battery power.
Now, Google is gearing up to power the forthcoming Pixel 9 and other devices with an upgraded modem. The reports say that a few modem upgrades will arrive in the Pixel 9 series and will bring some essential upgrades, of which satellite connectivity is the most noticeable.
However, that modem, which will be a part of Tensor G4, will still be provided by the Korean brand ‘Samsung’, and the new generation is signified as 5400, up from the 5300 coupled with Tensor G3.
It is expected that the forthcoming Pixel Fold 2 and a new 5G Pixel Tablet nicknamed ‘Clementine’ could use the same modem as the Pixel 7 and 8 series. If the expectation comes true, then this will be the first Pixel Tablet with cellular connectivity.
Pixel devices are getting a modem upgrade with the new 3GPP Rel. 17 standard, authorizing satellite connectivity for emergencies. At the moment, it appears that improvements are being made, but hardware changes are not clear yet. The satellite SoS through the “Satellite Gateway” application will be merged with the Emergency SOS; users will also have to answer questions about the situation, choose to notify contacts, and send messages to emergency services.
The questions, which may have multiple-choice answers, are mentioned below:
- What happened?
- [Are you, are they, or is everyone] breathing?
- In total, how many people are [missing or trapped]?
- What best describes your situation?
- What is on fire?
- Are there weapons involved?
- What type of vehicle or vessel?
- Do any of these apply?
It is expected that Google could shift to a TSMC-produced Tensor chip in 2025, but it’s yet to be clear whether the brand will change modems at that point. Tensor G4 is, beyond this modem, expected to be a relatively minor change.
