The Google Pixel 10's Tensor G5 chip has remained somewhat finicky with its performance since launch, especially when it comes to gaming. This is expected to change now, however, as Google is finally rolling out a critical driver update for its GPU.
Imagination's GPU within Pixel 10's Tensor G5 chip is now finally getting a critical driver update
As we noted in a dedicated post, Google has worked closely with Imagination to develop the new IMG PowerVR DXT-48-1536 GPU. However, Imagination retains full proprietary control over DXT-series drivers. This means that while Google can tweak certain elements of the GPU, especially in relation to AI loads and power management, it must rely on Imagination for foundational driver updates and hardware-specific code.
Now, Google is rolling out a critical update for the Tensor G5's GPU with the Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 software update, which bumps the GPU driver from version 1.602.400 to 1.634.2906, and brings with it support for Android 16, Vulkan 1.4, and a myriad of other improvements that Imagination had promised back in August.
Do note that the Pixel 10 had launched with an older PowerVR driver, and developers have been quick to blame this dated driver for the Pixel 10's spotty gaming performance, with those behind Genshin Impact going so far as to drop support for the driver entirely. The update is now expected to significantly improve the Tensor G5's real-world performance. Of course, the ensuing benchmark tests will play an important role in quantifying the degree of overall improvement that this driver update entails.
Do note that the Imagination GPU within the Tensor G5 inherently supports ray-tracing. However, Google, in its infinite wisdom and likely as a penny-pinching measure, chose to include the GPU within its bespoke SoC sans ray-tracing support.
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