Google Pixel Watch 5 Might Get a Powerful Upgrade

In an unexpected development, Google seems to be working on a specialized Tensor chip specifically for its Pixel Watch lineup.

This new chip, known internally as ‘NPT’ (possibly referencing ‘Newport Beach’), is set to debut in 2026 alongside the highly anticipated Pixel Watch 5 (as reported by Android Authority).

While the Pixel Watch 4 has yet to be released, the shift to a custom Tensor chip would mark Google’s first significant venture into tailor-made silicon for wearables, focusing on efficiency rather than raw processing power.

Unlike cutting-edge phone processors like the recently launched Snapdragon 8 Elite, which prioritize speed and performance, wearable technology demands a delicate balance that heavily emphasizes power efficiency.

Google’s NPT chip seems to adhere to this principle by featuring a distinct CPU setup, including one Arm Cortex-A78 core and two Arm Cortex-A55 cores, designs from 2017 known for their low power consumption rather than top-notch performance.

While opting for older cores may seem unconventional for new technology, it aligns with the current trend in wearables, where brands such as Samsung and Qualcomm also utilize older yet power-efficient CPU architectures.

Despite the use of dated CPU cores, industry insiders, as per Android Authority, are optimistic that the NPT chip will still deliver the necessary power to enhance smartwatch functionality.

Mattias Inghe

Google’s journey with the Pixel Watch has been filled with challenges, characterized by hardware setbacks and iterative upgrades.

The initial Pixel Watch struggled with an outdated Exynos chip that received criticism for its sluggishness and inefficiency. Google swiftly changed course with the Pixel Watch 2, which adopted Qualcomm’s Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, a significant improvement that carried over to the Pixel Watch 3.

With Qualcomm yet to unveil a new wearable platform, Google seems prepared to take charge of its silicon strategy, aiming to enhance the competitiveness of the Pixel Watch series in an expanding market.

Whether this custom chip will be the game-changer for the Pixel Watch series remains to be seen, but there is hope. In the meantime, explore our selection of the best smartwatches that the Pixel Watch 5 will compete against.