There's not much time left until the Pixel family becomes a reality. We know that On August 20, Google will unveil the standard Pixel 10, the Pixel 10 Pro, the Pixel 10 Pro XL, and the long-awaited foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold.
So we bring you a summary of all the leaks about the Tensor G5 processor that will power the Pixel 10. And we already told you that this SoC from the American manufacturer points to ways to supercharge its next generation of Made By Google smartphones. In addition to being the best processor to squeeze the Gemini's capabilities.
The new Tensor G5 processor: The heart of the Pixel 10 series
The Tensor G5 processor is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated and interesting elements of the new Pixel 10 series. And thanks to AAndroid Authority, we know every last detail.
Unlike previous Tensors, which relied on Samsung for manufacturing, The Tensor G5 will be produced entirely by TSMC using the advanced 3nm manufacturing process. This step forward allows Google to have greater control over the performance and energy efficiency of its new phones, and promises to put them on par with the best on the market.
Developing a SoC like the Tensor G5 is no easy task. Google, which has only been in this field for a few years, has proven it can play in the same league as giants like Qualcomm and Apple. How has it achieved this? Through a clever combination of internally designed components and the use of technologies already on the market. Far from reinventing the wheel, Google has opted for a consistent approach, combining the best of its engineers with proven and reliable components.
How the Pixel 5's Tensor G10 is designed
The core of the Tensor G5 is composed of eight main processors, distributed to cover all needs. At the top is a high-performance Cortex-X4 core, the muscle responsible for the most demanding tasks. It is accompanied by two Cortex-A725 cores, three A725 cores running at different frequencies, and two Cortex-A520 cores for low-power tasks. This hybrid architecture guarantees a perfect balance between power and efficiency.
Google Tensor G5 Deep Dive Report:
Performance improvements, design direction, and cost-effectiveness1. GPU Architecture Analysis and Impact:
The Tensor G4 uses an Arm Mali-G715 MP7 GPU. On the other hand, The Tensor G5 is expected to feature a dual-core Imagination… pic.twitter.com/Eo23xl8vt8— Connor/ソンナー/コナー (@OreXda) May 8, 2025
The big news is that, unlike previous generations that relied on Arm Mali GPUs, the Tensor G5 incorporates an Imagination Technologies IMG DXT. This new GPU aims for a qualitative leap in graphics performance, promising to run demanding games and augmented or extended reality environments with exceptional fluidity and image quality.
Of course, Google hasn't given up on its own creations. The chip includes several Google-designed IPs we've seen in the past, such as the AoC audio processor, which efficiently manages sound even when the phone is idle. It also replicates the Emerald Hill memory compression system, optimizing resource management for a smooth experience at all times.
Unprecedented AI power
One of the hallmarks of the Pixel range is its artificial intelligence. Here, the Tensor G5 flexes its muscles thanks to its next-generation TPU (Tensor Processing Unit). This specialized unit will be responsible for processing all AI-based functions, from image and video editing to real-time translation and voice recognition.
To this is added the Google GXP DSP processor, which has also evolved compared to previous generations. This component is based on the Tensilica Xtensa cores, and its main task will be to improve image and video processing, something crucial for the Pixel camera to remain a benchmark in the market.
This is how the Tensor G5 will help the Pixel 10's camera
The camera is one of the Pixel's big draws, and with the Tensor G5 processor, Google has finally taken a giant step forward. Until now, Pixel cameras used a combination of proprietary and Samsung modules. With the new chip, the image processor will be entirely Google's, from the beginning to the end of the processing chain.This means that the quality of photos and videos will depend almost 100 percent on Google's work, paving the way for significant improvements in mobile photography, especially considering the processor experience the manufacturer offers.
Another key difference is in the video codecs. While previous Tensors used Google's proprietary AV1 "BigWave" system and Samsung's MFC for other formats, the Tensor G5 has changed tactics. Google is now using an AVE677DV chip, a third-party video codec capable of encoding and decoding 4K content at 120 fps in formats like AV1, VP9, HEVC, and H.264. This should result in smoother video and better compatibility with current standards.
A processor built from scratch, but with a catch
Building a complete processor from scratch is a huge challenge. That's why Google has opted to license many of the more generic building blocks to external suppliers, such as Synopsys and VeriSilicon. Thus, VeriSilicon's DC9000 display controller replaces Samsung's solutions in previous Tensor, while Synopsys provides drivers for key interfaces such as USB 3, PCIe, DisplayPort and LPDDR5x memory.
Does this mean Google can't design them? Not necessarily. The reason is simple: licensing pre-tested standard components is cheaper, faster, and more secure. These generic modules perform basic functions (display drivers, connection ports, etc.) and don't affect the differentiating experience Google seeks with its own components (such as the ISP, TPU, or DSP). Furthermore, these third-party components often have performance and reliability that would be foolish to attempt to replicate from scratch.
A step towards independence from Samsung
The fact that Google has bypassed Samsung for the manufacturing of the Tensor G5 is significant. In the early years, Google needed Samsung's expertise and resources to compete in this complex market. Today, with the Tensor G5, it demonstrates that it's ready to go it alone. The switch to TSMC and the increased customization of key components (GPU, ISP, codecs, etc.) are the best proof that Google is serious.
Still, it is interesting to see how, Even with all its investment and talent, Google still needs third parties to complete the puzzle.It's a reminder of how complicated it is to build a modern SoC, where final performance depends on the sum of hundreds of tiny parts, many of which even tech giants don't manufacture themselves. Just ask Xiaomi, which took 10 years to develop its Xring 01.
But this Tensor G5 processor isn't just an incremental upgrade: it's confirmation that Google is now ready to design globally competitive processors. With its combination of high-performance cores, next-generation GPUs, a fully proprietary ISP, and unprecedented AI power, the new chip promises that the Pixel 10 will be faster, smarter, and more capable than ever.
Starting August 20, we'll find out if all this translates into real-world performance that rivals the best. But for now, everything points to the Tensor G5 being one of the most interesting and complete processors of the year.