Google Pixel 10 is to see a substantial enhancement to its camera system by a fully customized Image Signal Processor (ISP)  Tensor G5 chipset.

Google Pixel 10 Series Will Regain #1 Spot in Camera Quality Once Again Due to In-House Image Signal Processor

• The upcoming Google Pixel 10 series is expected to launch with Google’s first in-house image signal processor (ISP) integrated into the Tensor G5 chipset.

• This marks a significant departure from previous Tensor chipsets, which relied heavily on components from Samsung, indicating a greater level of control over hardware development by Google.

• The Tensor G5, manufactured by TSMC using 3nm nodes, will also incorporate ARM Cortex CPU cores and an Imagination Technologies DXT GPU, further showcasing Google’s move towards in-house design.

• The shift to an in-house ISP is anticipated to improve the efficiency of photo and video processing, potentially leading to enhanced image quality and performance in the Pixel 10 smartphones.

• Leaks suggest that other key components in the Tensor G5, such as the audio processor and memory compressor, are also Google’s own designs,  pointing to a more integrated and optimized system compared to previous Pixel generations.

Google is set to significantly change its approach to producing Tensor chips with the upcoming Pixel 10, moving away from collaboration with Samsung to an entirely in-house design utilizing TSMC’s 3nm process. It has been reported that the Tensor G5, designated for the Pixel 10, will retain the licensing of Arm Cortex CPU cores, which is standard across most Android devices. However, Google is expected to introduce a new Imagination Technologies DXT GPU, replacing the current Arm Mali GPU. Additionally, the new VeriSilicon DC9000 will take over display controller and 2D GPU responsibilities, moving away from Samsung’s Exynos components.

One of the most notable upgrades will be a fully custom Image Signal Processor (ISP) for the Tensor G5, marking a departure from previous Tensor chips that relied on various third-party elements enhanced by Google. Furthermore, the report notes a transition from Google’s home-built ‘BigWave’ AV1 codec and Samsung’s MFC codec to a unified third-party solution in Chips&Media’s WAVE677DV.

The Tensor G5 will continue to integrate a custom audio DSP and memory compressor similar to previous iterations and will also feature a next-gen TPU, which plays a crucial role in AI processing—a major reason for Google’s decision to develop its own chips.

Despite these advancements, the Tensor G5 may not immediately match the performance of competitors like the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Google’s Tensor chips have historically lagged in performance benchmarks, although the Pixel 9 Pro performs adequately for daily tasks. The introduction of a new GPU raises hopes that the Pixel 10 could see improvements in performance, particularly comparing with devices like the Galaxy S25 Ultra and OnePlus 13.

Google’s growing control over its camera functions is also a point of excitement, as the Pixel line is known for its exceptional photography. The Pixel 9 already provides an excellent point-and-shoot experience, and there are anticipations regarding how Google might enhance image processing capabilities with the Pixel 10.

Key points about the Pixel 10’s ISP:

Complete Custom Design: Google is transitioning from its previous Tensor chips, which incorporated modified Samsung ISPs with Google-designed components, to the development of a wholly proprietary ISP.

Enhanced Camera Capabilities: The new image signal processor is projected to yield significant improvements in image and video quality, potentially solidifying Google’s leading position in mobile photography.

Customization:Through the development of a customized image signal processor (ISP), Google can achieve superior optimization of the Pixel 10 camera’s hardware and software, resulting in enhanced image processing capabilities.

Key Role of ISP: The image signal processor (ISP) is a critical component of a smartphone’s camera system, processing image sensor data and facilitating software-based enhancements such as exposure control, white balance adjustment, autofocus, and noise reduction.

The Pixel 10’s Tensor G5 chip incorporates a fully custom image signal processor, representing a substantial advancement with the potential for significantly improved image and video quality across the Pixel product line.