Tensor G6 Processor and Thermal Management
Google is shifting chip production to TSMC’s advanced 2nm process for the upcoming Tensor G6 chip inside the Pixel 11 Pro, according to leaks reported by Tom’s Guide. This manufacturing leap follows last year’s Tensor G5 transition to a 3nm process. The new silicon targets significant performance gains and addresses chronic heat management complaints reported across previous Pixel generations.
Rumored architectural changes point to a seven-core CPU layout. This configuration features one ARM C1-Ultra core clocked at 4.11GHz, four ARM C1-Pro cores running at 3.38GHz, and two C1-Pro cores operating at 2.65GHz, according to leaked hardware specifications. While major GPU jumps are not anticipated, the upgraded CPU and neural processing unit are expected to deliver a tangible speed increase over the Pixel 10 Pro’s Tensor G5.
MediaTek M90 Modem Integration
Google plans to replace Samsung’s modem with a MediaTek component to resolve ongoing cellular connectivity and signal instability, according to recent leaks cited by Tom’s Guide. The Pixel 11 Pro will reportedly utilize MediaTek’s M90 modem.
The M90 hardware supports download speeds up to 12Gbps alongside an 18% boost in power efficiency driven by artificial intelligence optimizations. Because cellular modems consume substantial battery power during daily use, this efficiency gain aims to offset a rumored reduction in battery capacity for the new series, which drops from the Pixel 10 Pro’s 4,870mAh cell to a 4,850mAh battery.
Storage, RAM, and Pricing Changes
Base storage configurations for the Pixel 11 Pro are expanding to 256GB as Google reportedly eliminates the 128GB tier entirely, according to hardware leaks. However, this storage bump comes with a trade-off regarding system memory. While the Pixel 10 Pro shipped with 16GB of RAM across all models, the entry-level Pixel 11 Pro pairs its 256GB storage with 12GB of RAM.
Pricing for the entry-level Pixel 11 Pro is rumored to start at $1,099. That figure matches the price of the 256GB Pixel 10 Pro variant, meaning buyers receive double the baseline storage capacity for the same money, albeit with a reduction in RAM.
HiLight Notification LED and 120x Zoom
Google is introducing a circular glowing LED on the rear chassis of the Pixel 11 Pro, replacing the physical thermometer sensor found on earlier devices. According to promotional materials shared by leakster Evan Blass, the feature is called HiLight. Users can program the LED to illuminate during interactions with Gemini or assign custom lighting patterns to specific incoming notifications and contacts.
In the camera department, the device builds on the Pro Res Zoom feature introduced on the Pixel 10 Pro. Marketing leaks indicate the new model supports up to 120x zoom, combining telephoto hardware with AI processing to push past the previous 100x limit.
Pro Tip: Evaluating the Upgrade
If you currently own a Pixel 10 Pro with 16GB of RAM, weigh whether the jump to a 2nm Tensor G6 processor, MediaTek modem, and larger base storage outweighs the drop in baseline RAM before committing to an upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Google Pixel 11 Pro be released?
Google confirmed that the new phones will debut at the Made by Google event on August 12.
What processor will power the Pixel 11 Pro?
Leaks indicate the device will use the Tensor G6 chip, built on TSMC’s 2nm manufacturing process.
What is the base storage for the Pixel 11 Pro?
According to recent supply chain leaks, Google is dropping the 128GB entry point and making 256GB the new base storage option.
Does the Pixel 11 Pro feature a thermometer?
No. Leaks show that the physical temperature sensor on the back is being replaced by a new circular notification LED called HiLight.
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