Google’s upcoming Pixel 10 series could see significant hardware upgrades, with reports suggesting that the Tensor G5 chipset may feature a GPU developed by Imagination Technologies.
Highlights
According to recent leaks, Google might integrate the DXT-48-1536 GPU into the Tensor G5, offering potential improvements in graphics performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities. This would mark a shift from previous Tensor chips, which relied on Arm Mali GPUs.
Potential GPU Upgrade in Tensor G5
A blog post by postgraduate student Yang Yanling originally mentioned the integration of Imagination GPUs with RISC-V, referencing Google’s potential adoption of the technology.
Although the post was later edited to remove these details, screenshots of the original version have fueled speculation. Additionally, Imagination Technologies briefly shared the post before the changes were made, adding further credibility to the claims.
If the Pixel 10 series incorporates the DXT-48-1536 GPU, it could enhance the graphical experience through features such as scalable ray tracing, which improves lighting and reflections in games and high-end applications.
The GPU is also expected to support Fragment Shading Rate (FSR), optimizing performance by reducing processed fragments without sacrificing visual quality.
Furthermore, reports indicate a 50% increase in compute and texture performance per Scalable Processing Unit (SPU) compared to its predecessor, contributing to smoother and more immersive visuals.
AI and Performance Enhancements
Beyond GPU improvements, the Tensor G5 SoC is expected to introduce advancements across multiple components.
Reports suggest the inclusion of an upgraded always-on compute (AoC) audio processor, the Google Emerald Hill memory coprocessor, the Google GXP (DSP), and the Google EdgeTPU, all of which could enhance efficiency and AI-driven functionalities.
Performance Metrics Dashboard
The Tensor G5’s Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) is rumored to deliver a 14% performance boost over its predecessor, supporting advanced AI-powered features. Among these, the Pixel 10 series is expected to introduce:
- “Video Generative ML”, an AI-driven video editing tool within Google Photos.
- “Sketch-to-Image”, a function that uses AI to transform drawings into images.
Camera System and Design Updates
Leaked renders suggest that the base model of the Pixel 10 may include a third rear camera—a periscope telephoto lens, alongside the main and ultrawide cameras. This could enhance optical zoom capabilities, offering users greater flexibility in mobile photography.
On the design front, the Pixel 10 series is expected to maintain a similar aesthetic to its predecessor, with some reports indicating a slightly thicker build. The 6.3-inch display and matte-finished sides are also likely to remain.
Manufacturing and Performance Optimizations
Unlike the Tensor G4, which was manufactured by Samsung Foundry, the Tensor G5 is rumored to be produced using TSMC’s 3nm process. This transition could result in better power efficiency and thermal management, enhancing overall performance.
Additionally, a new “performance mode” is expected to improve Android boot times by up to 30%, potentially benefiting all Android devices equipped with the new SoC.
Expected Launch and Future Updates
While Google has not officially confirmed these details, the leaks suggest that the Pixel 10 series could introduce some of the most significant hardware upgrades in the Pixel lineup’s history.
The potential integration of Imagination Technologies’ GPU into the Tensor G5 SoC may position the Pixel 10 series as a strong competitor in the flagship smartphone segment, particularly in gaming, AI-driven processing, and overall system efficiency.
More details are expected to emerge in the coming months as Google prepares for the Pixel 10 series launch.
