Pixel 11 Drops Samsung: Why the MediaTek M90 Modem is a Huge Win in 2026
- May 7
- 3 min read
Introduction
For years, Pixel enthusiasts have had a love-hate relationship with their devices. We love the "magic" of Google’s computational photography and the clean Android experience, but we have consistently struggled with one glaring flaw: connectivity. Since the transition to Tensor chips, signal drops and overheating modems have been the Achilles' heel of the lineup.
However, 2026 marks a historic turning point. Recent leaks confirm that the upcoming Pixel 11 series will finally ditch the Samsung Exynos-based modems in favor of the MediaTek M90 modem. This isn't just a minor spec bump; it is the fundamental fix Pixel fans have been demanding for half a decade.
Pixel 11: The 2026 Connectivity Revolution
Feature | Details |
Release Date | Expected August 2026 |
Processor | Tensor G6 (TSMC 2nm Process) |
New Modem | MediaTek M90 |
Peak 5G Speed | Up to 12 Gbps |
Special Features | Satellite Connectivity (NR-NTN), AI-Enhanced Signal |
Key Benefit | Significantly Lower Battery Drain & Heating |
Why Google is Ditching Samsung for MediaTek in 2026
Since 2021, Google has relied on Samsung’s modem technology as part of its Tensor partnership. While the Exynos 5400 in the Pixel 10 made strides, it still lagged behind the industry-leading Qualcomm modems found in iPhones and Galaxies.
The move to the MediaTek M90 modem for the Pixel 11 signals Google's commitment to reliability. MediaTek has quietly become a connectivity powerhouse, and the M90 is their flagship 5G-Advanced solution. By integrating this into the new Tensor G6 chip (manufactured on TSMC's cutting-edge 2nm node), Google is finally prioritizing a "phone that actually works as a phone."
The Impact of the Pixel 11 MediaTek M90 Modem
The technical advantages of the MediaTek M90 are substantial. Here is how this shift will improve your daily experience:
1. Superior 5G Stability and Speed
The MediaTek M90 supports NR-DC (New Radio Dual Connectivity), which has been lab-tested to reach throughput speeds of 12 Gbps. For the average user, this means fewer "dead zones" in crowded areas and significantly faster downloads on 5G networks.
2. Battery Efficiency and Thermal Control
The primary complaint with Samsung modems was "idle drain"—the phone losing 10-15% battery overnight just searching for a signal. The M90 is built for efficiency. Combined with the 2nm Tensor G6, the Pixel 11 is expected to offer the best battery life in the history of the series.
3. Advanced Satellite Connectivity
Following the trend set in 2024 and 2025, the Pixel 11 MediaTek M90 modem will fully support 3GPP Release 17 standards. This allows for two-way satellite messaging and even emergency voice calls in areas with zero cellular coverage—a must-have safety feature in 2026.
What Else We Know About the Pixel 11 Series
The modem isn't the only headline. The 2026 Pixel lineup is shaping up to be a powerhouse:
Tensor G6 Efficiency: Moving to TSMC’s 2nm process means less heat and more sustained performance.
Pixel Glow: Rumors suggest a new RGB LED array in the camera bar for notifications, replacing the underutilized temperature sensor.
Camera Upgrades: A new 50MP "Chemosh" sensor is expected to debut, bringing better low-light video capabilities.
Is the Pixel 11 Worth the Wait?
If you are currently holding a Pixel 6, 7, or even an 8 and find yourself frustrated by dropped calls or a phone that gets hot in your pocket, the answer is a resounding yes. The combination of a 2nm processor and the MediaTek M90 modem addresses the two biggest complaints users have had for years.
FAQs about the Pixel 11 and MediaTek M90
1. Will the Pixel 11 have better signal than the Pixel 10?
Yes. By using the Pixel 11 MediaTek M90 modem, the device is expected to have much better signal retention in low-coverage areas compared to the Samsung modems used in previous generations.
2. Does the MediaTek M90 support 5G-Advanced?
Absolutely. The M90 is a 5G-Advanced (Release 18) ready modem, meaning it is future-proof for the next several years of network upgrades.
3. Will the switch to MediaTek affect software updates?
No. Google’s transition to a fully in-house designed Tensor G6 on TSMC’s node actually gives them more control over the software stack, ensuring the promised 7 years of OS updates remain smooth.
4. When will the Pixel 11 be released in 2026?
Following Google's recent schedule, we expect the Pixel 11, Pro, and Pro XL to be announced in August 2026.
Conclusion
The "Great Modem Shift" of 2026 is the final piece of the puzzle for Google. By moving to the MediaTek M90, the Pixel 11 graduates from a "great camera with a weak phone" to a true flagship contender. If connectivity has been your dealbreaker, 2026 is the year to come back to Pixel.
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