Google may start using a proprietary Tensor processor with the Pixel Watch 5 in 2026.
Android Authority, which claims leaked documents from Google’s gChips group, is the source of the rumor. An ARM Cortex A78 and two Arm Cortex A55s make up the main configuration of the wearable Tensor chip, code-named NPT, according to the leaked designs. Although these CPU cores are older, wearable processors tend to do that. Apart from that, there are not many details available, and it is unclear what process node technology the proposed wearable Tensor chip would feature.
Unlike smartphones, smartwatches often do not place as much emphasis on chips. Manufacturers of smartwatches typically concentrate on methods to extend battery life without compromising smart capabilities, as long as performance is responsive. However, considering that processor stagnation has historically been a major barrier for Android smartwatches, this is a potentially intriguing development.
In summary, Qualcomm chips were once required for Android smartwatches, and the company took its time developing processors that could compete with the others. (You know, Bob, the Snapdragon Wear 2100, 3100, and 4100 were not that good.)
Qualcomm did not start to feel the pinch until 2021, when Google and Samsung collaborated to develop Wear OS 3. The Pixel Watch line from Google was affected by that chip issue. Prior to the Pixel Watch 2 switching to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5, the original watch was powered by an outdated Samsung Exynos chip. But since 2022, when Qualcomm last introduced a new wearable chip, little has changed.
Therefore, it is not surprising that Google would be considering the benefits of internalizing. By doing this, it would be less dependent on outside companies to create future features. However, by the time 2026 arrives, Google might take a very different turn.
The fact that these stolen documents date from early 2023 suggests that Google was already planning for a Pixel Watch 5 at that time, which is maybe more hopeful. Although we will have to wait and see, Google has been gaining ground in the smartwatch market. I hope this indicates that it can continue.
