Google appears to be further reducing its hardware reliance on Samsung for Pixel phones: recent reports indicate the Pixel 11 series may use a MediaTek 5G modem instead of Samsung’s Exynos modem, a finding supported by a filing in the FCC database.
Pixel 11: MediaTek modem spotted in FCC filing
The change came to light after a SAR test report in the FCC database referenced MediaTek’s TA-SAR v2 algorithm. That detail strongly suggests Pixel 11 models will employ a MediaTek connectivity solution rather than one from Samsung.
Tensor G6 paired with MediaTek M90 and built on TSMC’s 2 nm node
Sources say Google’s next Tensor G6 chip will be paired with MediaTek’s M90 modem and manufactured on TSMC’s 2 nm process. The same reports cite theoretical cellular throughput up to 12GB/s. The Tensor G6 is also said to include features such as direct satellite connectivity for emergency calls and messages, plus support for dual active 5G connections.
What role will Samsung keep in the Pixel ecosystem?
Google already stopped using Samsung Foundry for Tensor chip production last year. With modems shifting to MediaTek, Samsung’s role in future Pixels may be limited to components such as OLED panels, some camera sensors, and DRAM and UFS storage, according to available reports.
Bottom line
Taken together—the FCC mention, the Tensor G6–M90 pairing, the 2 nm process node and advanced connectivity features—these signals point to a gradual reshaping of Google’s supplier mix for the upcoming Pixel 11 lineup, rather than a wholesale breakup of existing partnerships.
