Google Tensor G5 is their first wholly TSMC-built 3nm chip with proprietary AI technology, 60% stronger TPU, 34% faster CPU, and revolutionary on-device Gemini Nano performance.
The Google Tensor G5 chip powers the new Pixel 10 series, marking Google’s most daring step toward creating an AI-first smartphone experience. Unlike previous Tensor chips designed with Samsung, the G5 is produced by TSMC utilizing a 3nm technology. The Tensor G5, which features custom-built technology and sophisticated AI integration, intends to change how smartphones balance performance, privacy, and intelligence.
What is Google Tensor G5
The Tensor G5 is Google’s first entirely independent processor, developed without Samsung’s direct involvement. Earlier Tensor generations relied largely on Samsung’s Exynos chips, limiting optimization. By moving production to TSMC’s 3nm node, Google has more control over how its chip balances speed, AI, and efficiency.
What makes G5 unique is its custom hardware blocks:
Featured
- A brand-new Image Signal Processor (ISP) for photography
- An AI-focused Tensor Processing Unit (TPU)
- A memory compressor to handle large AI models
- Google’s own audio DSP for clear calls and recordings
This independence enables Google to fully align Pixel hardware with its AI software vision, giving the Pixel 10 series a distinct identity from Snapdragon-powered Android phones.
Performance and CPU/GPU Efficiency
The Google Tensor G5 uses a tri-cluster CPU layout:
- 1x Cortex-X4 Prime Core at 3.78GHz for heavy tasks
- 5x Cortex-A725 Cores at 3.05GHz for balanced performance
- 2x Cortex-A520 Cores at 2.25GHz for background tasks
For graphics, it features Imagination PowerVR DXT-48-1536 GPU, improving gaming, rendering, and animations.
Key Performance Gains
- CPU: 34% faster than Tensor G4
- TPU: 60% more powerful for AI workloads
- Thermals: 3nm process reduces heating and improves battery
- Battery Life: Over 30 hours on a single charge across Pixel 10 models
Unlike Snapdragon or Apple A-series chips, Google focuses less on peak Geekbench scores and more on smoother, AI-optimized daily use.
Advanced AI Capabilities
The Google Tensor G5 biggest leap lies in AI. It is the first chip to run Google’s Gemini Nano directly on-device, boosting both speed and privacy.
AI Highlights
- Large Context Windows – Up to 32k tokens, enabling smarter AI responses and summarization of long conversations.
- Magic Cue – Suggests reminders, actions, and cross-app insights directly from Gmail, Calendar, and Messages.
- Voice Translate – Real-time call translation while preserving natural voice tones; supports 10+ languages including English, Hindi, Japanese, and Spanish.
- Gemini Live – Lets AI “see” your screen or camera to overlay guidance and highlight solutions.
- Take a Message – Expands Call Screen with live transcripts and smart follow-ups.
- Pixel Journal – On-device journaling assistant with mood analysis and prompts.
- NotebookLM Integration – Syncs screenshots and recordings to research notebooks.
- AI Gboard Tools – Rewrite text, add emojis, or rephrase with voice commands.
- Music Creation – Convert hums or recordings into music tracks instantly.
These features turn Pixel 10 into a true AI companion, not just a smartphone.
Camera and Imaging Power
Google’s camera excellence continues with Google Tensor G5 new ISP:
- 10-bit HDR video (1080p & 4K30) for cinematic visuals
- Motion deblur to fix shaky images
- Improved Real Tone for accurate skin tones
- Pro Res Zoom with up to 100x digital zoom
New AI Camera Tools
- Add Me: Includes everyone in group shots
- Auto Best Take: Combines multiple frames for the best expressions
- C2PA Credentials: Embeds authenticity metadata into each image
The result: Pixel 10 offers not only the smartest AI photos but also trustworthy and secure content capture.
Security and Privacy
Google Tensor G5 adds layers of hardware security:
- Works with the Titan M2 chip for end-to-end device protection
- Introduces new lifecycle security cores to protect devices from factory to user
- Supports C2PA content credentials, ensuring images and videos remain tamper-proof
With these features, Pixel 10 series reinforces its image as the most secure Android ecosystem.
Ecosystem and Longevity
The Pixel 10 lineup ships with Android 16 and promises 7 years of OS and security updates — rivaling Apple’s support.
Ecosystem Highlights
- Qi2 wireless charging with magnets
- New Pixelsnap accessories like magnetic chargers and docks
- AI Pro subscription bundled with Pixel 10 Pro for video generation
This future-proof approach ensures Pixel 10 devices remain reliable long-term companions.
Final Take
The Google Tensor G5 CPU marks a watershed moment for Pixel phones. It does not intend to outperform Snapdragon or Apple in terms of raw speed. Instead, it delivers smarter, longer-lasting, and AI-first experiences. With powerful on-device Gemini AI, 100x zoom photos, real-time translations, and unrivaled endurance, the Pixel 10 series is the smartest Android phone family ever.