Google Pixel 9, Fold 2, and Pixel Tablet 2 to get new modem with satellite connectivity: report

Google Pixel 9 to get upgraded modem

• Prior to moving to Tensor chipsets, Google used Qualcomm modems, courtesy of Snapdragon chipsets.
• Right after shifting to in-house Tensor chipsets, which have Exynos as a base, the company started employing Samsung modems on its Pixel line of phones.

• The current line of modems on Pixel phones reportedly suffer from low connections and are less power efficient. 
• Android Authority reports that the Pixel 9 series will be equipped with a new modem, which should offer better connectivity performance.
• The new modem will be accommodated with the new Tensor G4 chipset that is expected to debut on the upcoming line of Pixel hardware, including the Pixel 9, Pixel Fold 2, and Pixel Tablet 2.
• This same modem will be used on other products like the Pixel Fold 2 and the rumoured Pixel Tablet with a 5G network.

The new modem will reportedly receive software-level improvements like adding support for the 3GPP Rel.17 5G spec. This will bring satellite connectivity. As reported earlier, Pixel products will have a new Satellite Gateway" app, which will be used through Emergency SOS. The new modem will still be supplied by Samsung and will be signified as 5400 compared to 5300 on the existing Tensor G3 chipset.

What improvements the new modem will bring in terms of hardware is something we need to wait and see. Besides the new modem upgrade, Google is expected to shift to TSMC-produced Tensor chipsets in 2025.