Pixel customers hoping to make use of generative AI options in a extra non-public method are in for a disappointment, with the Pixel 8 offloading processing to the cloud.
Google has touted the advantages of its newest Tensor G3 chip, particularly within the realm of generative AI. For instance, in a weblog publish asserting the brand new chip, Google mentioned the next:
Our work with Tensor has by no means been about speeds and feeds, or conventional efficiency metrics. It’s about pushing the cell computing expertise ahead. And in our new Tensor G3 chip, each main subsystem has been upgraded, paving the way in which for on-device generative AI.
Provided that wording, a buyer might be forgiven for believing that generative AI processing within the Tensor G3-driven Pixel 8 can be dealt with on-device. Sadly, that isn’t the case.
As noticed by DroidLife, it seems the fact if far much less grand than Google makes it sound, with the Pixel 8 requiring an web connection to dump generative AI processing to the cloud:
As we’re discovering out, basically the entire Pixel 8 lineup’s generative AI options require a knowledge connection. The presumption is that the units seize the mandatory knowledge, ship it to Google’s knowledge facilities, after which ship it again to your cellphone in mere seconds. When making an attempt to make use of any of the options with out a knowledge connection, like AI Wallpapers or Google Pictures’ Magic Editor, you get met with an error message stating you want to examine your web connection.
The revelation is a disappointing one, particularly for individuals who want to strive generative AI options with out their knowledge being transmitted to distant servers.
Much more disappointing is Google’s double-speak that appears aimed toward making the Tensor G3 appear much more highly effective and succesful than it truly is.
