Google's Pixel 10 Series: Subtle Upgrade with Custom Chipset, Enhanced Camera, and Faster Storage

Google's Pixel 10 series is expected to be a subtle upgrade with minor refinements, including the Tensor G5 chipset from TSMC, which should improve efficiency and provide a custom camera ISP for a more focused camera experience. The series will also feature faster storage, with some models starting at 256GB.

Google's upcoming Pixel 10 series is expected to bring a series of subtle yet impactful upgrades, positioning it as a worthy successor to the Pixel 9 series. According to recent leaks and reports, the Pixel 10 series will introduce the Tensor G5 chipset from TSMC, which promises enhanced efficiency and a custom camera ISP for improved photography capabilities. Additionally, some models are expected to come with faster storage options, starting at 256GB.

The Pixel 10 series is anticipated to maintain a similar design and hardware configuration to the previous generation, with refinements under the hood. The Tensor G5 chipset, Google's first fully-custom chipset made by TSMC, is expected to deliver notable improvements in efficiency. While major performance upgrades are not anticipated, the focus on efficiency is a crucial aspect, especially in the context of the "tick-tock" release cycle, which typically results in a better product [1].

One of the most anticipated features of the Pixel 10 series is the custom camera ISP, which could significantly enhance the camera experience. The Pixel camera has faced criticism in recent years, and the introduction of a custom processing pipeline for the camera is seen as a positive step towards reclaiming the strengths of the Pixel camera [1].

In terms of storage, recent leaks suggest that the Pixel 10 Pro XL will start at 256GB, indicating a potential move away from UFS 3.1. This change is seen as a necessary upgrade, although the exact storage configurations for the base Pixel 10 and the Pixel 10 Pro remain uncertain at this point [1].

Additionally, the Pixel 10 series is expected to introduce a splash of color, with models like the "Indigo" base Pixel 10 and "Moonstone" and "Jade" for the Pro devices. The inclusion of Qi2 with magnets is also more likely, along with bigger batteries, which are significant upgrades for the Pixel 10 series [1].

Pricing for the Pixel 10 series is expected to remain stable, with no major price increases beyond the removal of the most affordable Pixel 10 Pro XL storage option. This stability in pricing is particularly notable in a world of increasing tariffs and prices [1].

Overall, the Pixel 10 series is poised to be a worthwhile upgrade for those who did not purchase the Pixel 9 series, without being overly enticing for those with this year's model. The focus on efficiency, camera improvements, and subtle design refinements positions the Pixel 10 series as a strong contender in the smartphone market.

References:
[1] https://9to5google.com/2025/07/27/google-pixel-10-series-upgrades/