The Google Pixel 10 series has hit a major snag, rendering the wildly popular mobile game Genshin Impact nearly unplayable for its users. This setback stems from the withdrawal of GPU support for the Tensor G5, a situation that has left many gamers frustrated and searching for answers.
Genshin Impact is more than just a game; it’s a global phenomenon with over 100 million downloads on Android devices alone. However, for Pixel 10 owners, accessing this visually stunning game has become a challenge.
This change came to light in the update notes released in August, which indicated that Genshin Impact has increased its minimum requirements. The update now specifically supports devices equipped with a PowerVR GPU, which unfortunately includes the Pixel 10 series due to Google's recent switch from Mali GPUs in earlier Tensor chips to PowerVR GPUs in the new TSMC chip. This shift was first announced approximately a year ago, highlighting the evolving landscape of mobile gaming hardware.
Current indications suggest that Pixel 10 users are severely impacted, as evidenced by a slew of videos circulating on social media platforms like Reddit and Twitter (now X). While some have reported being able to enjoy the game, many others have found themselves facing significant gameplay issues, leading to a frustrating experience that involves flickering graphics and instability.
The release notes for the Genshin Impact update specified that devices failing to meet the established minimum requirements might still be able to launch the game. However, users could encounter performance problems like reduced frame rates, crashes, and general instability during gaming sessions. This variability in performance explains why some users have been able to play while others have endured a broken experience—performance can drastically differ based on where players are within the game.
What’s particularly ironic is that PowerVR GPUs are becoming increasingly rare in modern smartphones. Though companies like Apple previously utilized PowerVR technology, it’s been quite some time since they have. Today, aside from the Pixel 10 series, this GPU technology is largely confined to a few budget Android devices, primarily those powered by MediaTek chips.
It’s worth noting that earlier models of the Pixel line remain unaffected by this GPU change—a fact that may leave Pixel 10 users feeling sidelined.
For those seeking a bit more information related to the Pixel 10 and its recent developments:
- Pixel 10 and 10 Pro Repair Updates: Check out the latest on more expensive screen repairs, along with cheaper battery and camera options.
- Storage Critique: A conversation surrounding whether Google's focus on AI justifies the current offering of only 128GB of storage.
- OTA Updates: Google is rolling out the September 2025 update for the Pixel 10 and 10 Pro, addressing potential issues and providing new features.
As the gaming community continues to discuss and dissect this issue, one question remains: Should Pixel users settle for devices that limit their gaming capabilities? Or should manufacturers prioritize compatibility for popular titles like Genshin Impact? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
