For some years now, Google Pixel phones have been easy recommendations for anyone who wants a phone with good cameras. However, more recently, Chinese companies like Vivo and Xiaomi have taken the limelight away from Pixels, thanks to their bigger sensors and on-power camera processing.
But it seems Google is also ready to step things up in the camera department. Central to this leap forward is the brand-new Tensor G5 chip, the powerhouse behind the Pixel 10 series. What makes this chip special is that Google is building it without Samsung’s help — a first for the company.
The star of the show is the Tensor G5’s fully custom Image Signal Processor (ISP), built from the ground up by Google. In the past, Pixel chips relied on a mix of Google and Samsung ISP parts. Now, this custom ISP promises better image processing and could unlock exciting new camera tricks, as noted by Android Authority.
The Tensor G5 doesn’t stop there. It blends Google’s own designs with top-notch components from other tech leaders. For example, it uses CPU cores from Arm, a GPU from Imagination Technologies, and a display controller from VeriSilicon. These partnerships keep the chip cutting-edge while letting Google call the shots on the parts that matter most — like the ISP.
So, what does this mean for the Pixel 10’s camera? A custom ISP gives Google the freedom to tweak how images are handled, start to finish. Expect sharper photos with richer colors, better dynamic range, and less noise, especially in dim light. Plus, Google’s knack for machine learning and AI could bring fresh features to the table, making photography even more fun and creative.
This chip isn’t just about the camera, though. It’s a milestone in Google’s push to control more of its hardware destiny. By stepping away from partners like Samsung, Google can sync its software and hardware more tightly, which might mean a smoother, snappier experience overall.
That said, we’ll just have to wait and see how the Pixel 10 lineup stacks up against the current photography kings like the Vivo X200 Pro and the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
Dwayne Cubbins
1355 Posts
My fascination with Android phones began the moment I got my hands on one. Since then, I've been on a journey to decode the ever-evolving tech landscape, fueled by a passion for both the "how" and the "why." Since 2018, I've been crafting content that empowers users and demystifies the tech world. From in-depth how-to guides that unlock your phone's potential to breaking news based on original research, I strive to make tech accessible and engaging.
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