The latest leak surrounding the Pixel 10 hints at Google’s ambitious plans to revamp its Tensor chips, signaling a significant shift in performance. Reports suggest that Google is poised to move away from Samsung for the Pixel 10 chip, embracing an entirely in-house design based on TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm process.
According to a recent report by Android Authority, the upcoming Tensor G5 for Pixel 10 will introduce several key enhancements. While continuing to license Arm Cortex CPU cores, Google will make a notable switch to an Imagination Technologies DXT GPU, replacing the current Arm Mali. Additionally, the VeriSilicon DC9000 will take over display controller and 2D GPU duties from Samsung’s Exynos DPUs.
One of the most exciting updates is the inclusion of a fully custom Image Signal Processor (ISP) in the Tensor G5, a significant departure from previous iterations that relied on third-party components. This move highlights Google’s commitment to enhancing the camera capabilities that define the Pixel experience.
Furthermore, Google is transitioning from its proprietary ‘BigWave’ AV1 codec to Chips&Media’s WAVE677DV, consolidating its approach to video encoding solutions. The Tensor G5 will also retain custom audio DSP and memory compression technologies, underscoring Google’s dedication to optimizing various aspects of chip performance.
While the Pixel 10’s performance remains a topic of speculation, early indications suggest a blend of first-party innovations and third-party components. Although the Tensor G5 may not initially rival the Snapdragon 8 Elite in raw power, Google’s focus on refining key elements like GPU performance and camera processing bodes well for potential improvements.
Historically, Pixel phones have excelled in day-to-day usage but lagged behind competitors in benchmarks and gaming performance. The transition to a new GPU in the Tensor G5 offers hope for enhanced gaming capabilities, potentially bringing the Pixel 10 closer to flagship devices like the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the OnePlus 13.
Moreover, Google’s continued investment in refining its camera technology is promising. Building on the success of the Pixel 9’s superior camera experience, the Pixel 10 is poised to elevate image processing further, setting a new standard for smartphone photography.
As Google gears up to unveil the Pixel 10 with its revamped Tensor chip, the tech community eagerly anticipates how these enhancements will translate into real-world performance gains. The Pixel series has always been known for its software optimization and camera prowess, and with the upcoming improvements, Google aims to solidify its position as a leading innovator in the competitive smartphone market.