Google Tensor G5 Chip Likely to be Made by TSMC
Google is making big steps in the realm of chip development. The tech giant is currently testing a self-developed Tensor chip, a project undertaken in collaboration with KYEC, a Taiwanese company. KYEC specializes in testing services for chips destined for manufacturing in Taiwan.
Reports indicate that Google is investing in equipment for testing these chips at KYEC’s facilities. Testing is set to commence around the middle of this year, with a gradual increase over time. This information comes from sources close to the matter and was first reported by 9to5Google.
This move by Google suggests a shift from its reliance on Samsung’s processors for its Pixel phones. Sources familiar with the development believe the chip being tested is the Tensor G5, also known by its codename “Laguna.” This chip is anticipated to launch in 2025.
The Tensor G5 is expected to be manufactured using TSMC’s advanced 3nm process technology. The focus of this chip is on enhancing artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, which aligns with Google’s emphasis on AI-powered features in its Pixel series.
This switch marks a significant milestone for Google. It represents the company’s first venture into fully custom chipset design. Up to this point, Google has been heavily dependent on the foundation provided by Samsung’s Exynos chips.
Transitioning the production to TSMC could present Google with numerous benefits. Moving away from Samsung’s Exynos chip base, which is currently trailing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon series in performance and efficiency, Google could gain more control over its chip design. This change might lead to the creation of more powerful and efficient Pixel phones in the future.
However, it’s important to note that Google’s collaboration with Samsung isn’t ending anytime soon. The Tensor G4, which is set to power the upcoming Pixel 9 series, will be manufactured using Samsung’s 4nm process. This chip is expected to offer slight improvements over the G3 found in the Pixel 8 series.
The technology used in Google’s Tensor G4 is reportedly similar to what is used in Samsung’s Exynos 2400 SoC. Therefore, we can anticipate substantial improvements in CPU and GPU performance.
Google Pixel Audio Leak Issue Explained
Google Pixel audio leak issue has recently raised serious privacy concerns among users, especially those who rely on Pixel-exclusive call handling features. Reports suggest that Google’s Take a Message feature inside the Pixel Phone app may be unintentionally recording and sending the receiver’s audio back to the caller — something it was never designed to do.
What Is Happening With Pixel’s Take a Message Feature?
The Take a Message feature is meant to automatically record voicemails when users can’t answer calls, helping them avoid spam or interruptions. However, according to user reports highlighted by 9to5Google and discussions on Reddit, the feature is sometimes capturing audio from the phone owner and transmitting it to the caller.
The Google Pixel audio leak issue appears to be linked to a software malfunction within the Phone app, rather than a hardware limitation, raising broader concerns about Pixel call privacy.
What makes this more worrying is the lack of visibility. Users are often unaware that the feature has activated unless the caller informs them. There is no clear on-screen warning in many cases, making the issue easy to miss.
Which Google Pixel Models Are Affected?
Early reports point toward older devices like the Pixel 4a, but at least one case suggests the issue has also appeared on the newer Pixel 10. This indicates the problem may be software-related rather than limited to specific hardware.
Google’s Response and Temporary Fix
Google has acknowledged the issue and confirmed that it is investigating the cause. While no official timeline has been shared for a fix, users don’t have to wait helplessly.
The safest workaround for now is to disable the Take a Message feature entirely. This prevents any chance of unintended audio sharing while Google works on a permanent solution.
How to Disable Take a Message on Pixel Phones
- Open the Phone app
- Go to Settings
- Look for Take a Message
- Toggle the feature off
The feature is available on Pixel 4 and newer models, but only in supported regions such as the US, UK, Australia, and Ireland.
Until Google releases a patch, the Google Pixel audio leak issue remains a reminder that smart call features must be used cautiously, especially when sensitive conversations are involved.
Final Thoughts
Until Google releases a fix, Pixel users should stay alert. If privacy is a priority, disabling Take a Message is a smart temporary move. Keep an eye on future updates, as this is a developing issue that affects trust in smart call-handling features.
Credit:Macrumors.com
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Samsung brightest OLED displays are set to redefine smartphone screen technology, but surprisingly, they will not debut on Samsung’s own Galaxy smartphones. Instead, these next-generation OLED panels are expected to appear first on Apple’s upcoming iPhone 18 series, marking a major shift in premium display strategy.
Samsung brightest OLED displays are expected to set a new benchmark for smartphone screens, especially in outdoor visibility and HDR performance.
Samsung Brightest OLED Displays Are Coming to iPhone 18 First
Samsung Display, the world’s largest OLED panel manufacturer, is reportedly preparing its brightest smartphone OLED displays to date. According to supply-chain reports from China, these panels will exceed the 3,000 nits peak brightness currently seen on the iPhone 17 lineup. Industry estimates suggest the iPhone 18 series could reach brightness levels of 3,500 nits or higher, offering improved outdoor visibility and HDR performance.
Apple is expected to rely heavily on Samsung Display for the iPhone 18 lineup, alongside LG Display. Chinese manufacturer BOE, which previously supplied OLED panels for some iPhone 17 models, is reportedly being excluded from Apple’s 2026 supply chain. The reason is simple: BOE is struggling to meet Apple’s stringent brightness and quality requirements for next-generation displays.
BOE’s Struggles Strengthen Samsung Display’s Position
BOE has reportedly faced production challenges while manufacturing OLED panels for the iPhone 17 series, leading Apple to shift a significant portion of orders to Samsung Display. This development further reinforces Samsung Display’s dominance in high-end OLED technology, especially in areas such as brightness efficiency, durability, and color accuracy.
Galaxy S26 Still Missing Samsung’s Brightest OLED Tech
While Apple benefits from Samsung’s latest OLED innovations, Samsung’s own smartphones appear to be left behind for now. The upcoming Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26+, and Galaxy S26 Ultra are expected to retain peak brightness levels of around 2,600 nits, similar to the Galaxy S25 series. This suggests Samsung is prioritizing supply commitments to Apple over integrating its brightest OLED panels into Galaxy devices.
With Samsung brightest OLED displays heading to Apple first, Galaxy users may have to wait another generation to experience the company’s most advanced screen technology.
Strategic Trade-Offs in the Display Industry
This situation highlights a recurring trend in the smartphone industry: component manufacturers often deliver their most advanced technologies to major clients before using them internally. While Galaxy users may feel disappointed, Samsung Display’s partnership with Apple ensures strong revenue and continued leadership in OLED innovation.
Credit: Sammobile.com
Also Read: Substack TV App Launch Is a Big Upgrade for Video on Apple TV and Google TV
Substack TV App Expands Beyond Newsletters
Substack TV app is officially here, marking a major expansion for the newsletter-first platform as it steps into the living room. Known for empowering writers and independent creators, Substack has now launched a beta TV app for Apple TV and Google TV, allowing subscribers to watch video posts and livestreams directly on their televisions.
The Substack TV app represents a major evolution for the platform as it moves beyond newsletters into long-form video and livestreaming. With the Substack TV app now available on Apple TV and Google TV, creators can reach audiences in a more immersive, living-room viewing experience while maintaining their subscription-based model.
How the Substack TV App Works on Apple TV and Google TV
The new TV app brings Substack’s growing video ecosystem to a larger screen, featuring a TikTok-style “For You” row that highlights videos from creators across the platform. Subscribers can also browse recommended videos based on their interests and subscriptions.
Both free and paid subscribers can access the app, though viewing options depend on subscription tiers. Substack has confirmed that paid content previews for free users are planned, alongside future additions such as audio posts, read-aloud features, improved search and discovery, and in-app upgrades to paid subscriptions. Dedicated creator sections will also allow viewers to explore all videos from a single publication in one place.
Why the Substack TV App Matters for Creators
This launch is part of a broader strategy. Substack began investing heavily in video back in 2022 with video posts, followed by video monetization tools and platform-wide livestreaming in 2024. In March 2025, it introduced a short-form, TikTok-like video feed within its mobile app.
With the TV app, Substack is positioning itself more directly against platforms like YouTube and Patreon, aiming to attract creators who produce long-form, thoughtful video content rather than purely short, algorithm-driven clips.
Audience Reaction to the Substack TV App Launch
Despite the company’s confidence, user reactions have been divided. Many long-time writers and subscribers worry that Substack’s growing focus on video could dilute its original mission of elevating long-form writing. Comments on the announcement blog post highlight concerns about venture capital influence and a shift away from the written word.
Still, Substack argues that TV is a natural home for immersive, long-form video and livestreams—content designed for viewers who want to spend more time with creators they trust.
As social platforms increasingly move into TV experiences—Instagram recently launched Reels viewing on Amazon Fire TV—Substack’s TV app reflects a larger trend. Whether this evolution strengthens or distracts from its writing roots remains to be seen.
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