From the moment the Google Pixel 10 was launched, it was clear that it could improve performance, especially in the graphics department. The problem was not the power of the chip Tensor G5but with a less visible obstacle: an outdated GPU driver that limited its true potential. The Mountain View firm tried to smooth out the Android 16 QPR2 experience, but the root of the problem remained intact. Well, that all changes with the new trial version of your operating system.
What does the new driver bring?
The change was not officially announced by Google during the beta presentation, but Reddit users and dedicated forums have discovered that the Google Pixel 10 is now using driver version v25.1. This update is no less: it adds compatibility with Android 16, support for Volcano 1.4 and advanced extensions OpenCLwhich means improvements in both performance and energy efficiency.
For those unfamiliar with Vulkan, this graphics API allows demanding games and applications make better use of the hardwareoffering a smoother and more optimized experience. In practice, this means less jerks when launching programs and more efficient management of graphics resources.
A much needed improvement
Tensor G5 Pixel 10 is an advanced chip manufactured in a three-nanometer process with PowerVR DXT-48-1536 GPU capable of reaching 1.5 TFLOPS theoretically. In practice, however, performance tests showed numbers that barely hit 3,707 on the graphics benchmarks, compared to over 9,000 for the Pixel 9 Pro and a far cry from the Galaxy S25’s 26,000. The reason? Original driver kept graphics at low frequencies, even under heavy loadresulting in lower performance than many mid-range mobile phones.
This bottleneck particularly affected games like Genshin Impact or Asphalt 9, where users reported performance drops. personnel and one irregular seniority. The community even speculated about hardware issues, but the reality was simpler: the software wasn’t up to par.
What to expect from Android 16 QPR3?
Although not a revolution, previous driver updates for Tensor processors have shown that these changes can be very positive. It is expected that a noticeable improvement in games and graphics applications, in addition to greater energy efficiency. However, Google hasn’t released any official tests, so we’ll have to wait for independent tests to quantify the actual impact.
At the moment, the update is only available to those who have joined the Android beta testing program. A stable version will arrive March 2026as part of the regular quarterly update cycle. If you don’t want to wait, you can sign up for the beta and try out the new driver starting today.
More news on QPR3
Android 16 QPR3 Beta 1 isn’t limited to graphics improvements. Among the new features are the following:
- Own flashlight brightness control from quick settings.
- Ability to delete widget At first glance on the main screen.
- Button navigation adjustments and smoother animations.
- Improved support for advanced protection in call filtering.
- Improvements to Always On Display and folder management.
These improvements, while less striking than the new driver, contribute to a a more refined and personalized experience for Pixel users.
All of this reinforces Google’s strategy of improving its devices through software updates instead of relying solely on hardware. If the tests confirm the expected improvements, the Google Pixel 10 can restore the land against competitors who have so far surpassed it in graphical performance. For users, this means a more balanced experience between Tensor G5’s AI capabilities and graphics performance in line with its range.
