Google’s Pixel 10 GPU Upgrade: What It Actually Means
▼ Summary
– Google confirmed it will deliver future GPU driver updates for the Pixel 10 lineup through monthly and quarterly system updates.
– The company’s statement is standard and does not clarify if these will be major driver upgrades or just minor maintenance improvements.
– The Pixel 10 currently uses an outdated Imagination GPU driver, while a newer version with performance enhancements was released in August.
– Some Pixel 10 owners are frustrated by the delay, as certain games have dropped support and performance issues have been reported.
– Google typically bundles GPU updates with major software releases or Pixel Drops, with the next expected update in December.
A Google spokesperson has officially confirmed that the company intends to roll out further GPU driver updates for the Pixel 10 lineup. This commitment was made in response to a direct inquiry, with the representative noting that ongoing driver quality enhancements are part of regular monthly and quarterly system updates. Recent September and October security patches, for instance, already incorporated certain driver improvements.
Despite this reassurance, the statement leaves considerable ambiguity regarding the scale of these planned updates. While it’s common for smartphone manufacturers to deliver periodic graphics optimizations, truly substantial GPU driver overhauls remain relatively infrequent. Many Pixel 10 users are specifically hoping for a major driver version upgrade, not just the incremental maintenance updates seen in recent patches. It remains uncertain whether Google is preparing a completely new driver version or will continue with smaller refinements.
The Pixel 10 is equipped with an Imagination PowerVR DXT-48-1536 GPU, which currently operates on driver version 24.3, a release that is now several months old. Imagination Technologies made a newer driver, version 25.1, available back in August. This updated driver brings Android 16 compatibility, Vulkan 1.4 support, and a variety of performance enhancements. However, Google has not yet deployed this newer driver to Pixel 10 devices.
This delay has generated frustration within the Pixel community. Some owners have expressed concern, especially since several popular mobile games, including Genshin Impact, discontinued support for PowerVR GPUs earlier this year. Discussions and reports about the Pixel 10’s GPU performance have become increasingly common on platforms like Reddit and various tech forums.
Historically, Google packages significant GPU driver updates with either major Android version releases or its scheduled Pixel Drop feature updates. The next Pixel Drop is anticipated in December, leading many to watch closely for any sign of the anticipated PowerVR driver upgrade. When pressed for a specific timeline regarding these future updates, Google declined to offer additional details.
(Source: Android Authority)
