The Google Pixel 10 series may break away from the Pixel 9 series and use a different but crucial new component compared to the previous models. According to an anonymous source speaking to Android Authority, the next Google Pixel phones will use a MediaTek modem instead of the Samsung Exynos modem.

MediaTek makes various 5G-ready modems suitable for use in smartphones and other mobile devices, as well as modems suitable for home networks. During Mobile World Congress in early 2024, the company announced the T300 5G platform, bringing 5G to power-constrained devices such as wearables, demonstrating its expertise in this area. For the Pixel 10, Google has apparently chosen an as yet unreleased MediaTek platform called T900, which will use an also unreleased modem called M85.

The move away from the Samsung modem is interesting. The Tensor G4 processor used in the Pixel 9 is a collaboration between Samsung and Google and uses a new Samsung modem – the Exynos 5400 – to improve connectivity and bring new features such as satellite communications to the phone. For the Tensor G5, Google is expected to switch manufacturing from Samsung to TSMC, which would give the company the opportunity – voluntarily or involuntarily – to try out another manufacturer for the modem at the same time.

While it may sound like a small internal component change, the modem is obviously crucial to the functionality of your phone, and if it doesn’t do this in an effective and efficient manner, battery life issues can quickly arise. Unhappy owners of the Google Pixel 8 series will already know this, as some complained about excessive battery drain caused by the Samsung Exynos 5300 modem with the Tensor G3 processor used in it.

Google is eager to avoid a repeat of this situation, especially after the Exynos 5400 modem proved more reliable, but the choice of alternatives is limited. Aside from Samsung, Qualcomm and MediaTek are the most likely alternatives, aside from making something of their own. Apple is expected to launch its own modem in 2025, breaking away from its reliance on Qualcomm for modems in the iPhone.

Digital Trends has reached out to MediaTek for comment on the connection between it and Google and will update when we hear back.