The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL has been one of the most talked-about Android flagships in India since its launch in August 2025. With its custom Tensor G5 chip (made by TSMC), it promised to solve the heating and battery issues of the past. However, early users reported nagging bugs with gaming performance and touchscreen responsiveness.
Good news is finally here. Google has started rolling out a major January 2026 Security Patch (Android 16 QPR2) that specifically targets these issues. If you own a Pixel 10 Pro XL or are planning to buy one in the ongoing Republic Day Sales, this update changes everything.
Here is the full breakdown of the new update and why the Pixel 10 Pro XL is now a stronger contender against the Samsung Galaxy S26 series.
The January 2026 Update: What’s Fixed?
This isn’t just a regular security patch. Google’s latest update addresses critical performance complaints that have plagued the device for months.
1. Major GPU Performance Boost
The biggest fix is for the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Users previously complained about stuttering in high-end games like Genshin Impact and BGMI, despite the powerful Tensor G5 chip.
- The Fix: The January patch optimizes the GPU driver, smoothing out frame rates and reducing lag in graphic-intensive apps.
- Result: Gaming performance is now reportedly stable, finally utilizing the full potential of the TSMC-made 3nm chip.
2. Touchscreen “Dead Zone” Fixed
A frustrating bug caused the Pixel 10 Pro XL‘s screen to intermittently stop responding to touch, especially near the edges.
- The Fix: Google has calibrated the touch sensitivity algorithms. The display now responds instantly to taps and swipes without “freezing.”
3. Always-On Display & Battery Drain
Some users faced a flickering issue when the phone switched to the “Always-On Display” mode, along with unexplained battery drain overnight.
- The Fix: The update resolves the flickering and optimizes background processes, potentially extending the battery life by an extra hour or two.
Quick Recap: Why Pixel 10 Pro XL is a “Super Flagship”
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If you missed the initial hype, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is Google’s most advanced phone ever. It marks a historic shift from Samsung-made chips to TSMC-made silicon, the same manufacturer that makes chips for Apple and Qualcomm.
Key Specifications
- Processor: Google Tensor G5 (3nm TSMC) – Cooler, faster, and efficient.
- Display: 6.8-inch Super Actua OLED (LTPO 1-120Hz) with 3,300 nits peak brightness.
- Cameras:
- 50MP Main (OIS)
- 48MP Ultrawide
- 48MP Periscope Telephoto (5x Optical Zoom)
- 42MP Selfie Camera with Autofocus.
- Battery: 5,200 mAh with 45W Wired Charging and 25W Qi2 Wireless Charging.
- Software: Runs on Android 16 with a promise of 7 years of OS updates.
Price in India & Buying Advice (January 2026)
The Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is currently available on Flipkart, Reliance Digital, and Croma.
- Launch Price: ₹1,24,999 (approx).
- Current Offer Price: During January sales, effective prices have been spotted around ₹1,09,000 (including bank offers).
Should you buy it now? With the January 2026 update fixing the GPU and touch issues, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is finally the refined flagship it was meant to be. If you want the best camera experience and the smartest AI features (like Gemini Nano) without the heating issues of older Pixels, now is the best time to buy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the new update for Pixel 10 Pro XL in January 2026?
The update (Android 16 QPR2) fixes major bugs including GPU performance lags in games, unresponsive touchscreens, and Always-On Display flickering.
Q2: Is the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL good for gaming now?
Yes, after the January 2026 patch, the GPU performance has been significantly improved, making gaming much smoother on the Tensor G5 chip.
Q3: Who manufactures the Tensor G5 chip in Pixel 10 Pro XL?
The Tensor G5 is manufactured by TSMC (on a 3nm process), replacing Samsung Foundry. This has improved heat management and battery life significantly.
Q4: Does the Pixel 10 Pro XL have wireless charging?
Yes, it supports 25W Qi2 Wireless Charging, which uses magnets for perfect alignment (similar to MagSafe).
Q5: What is the price of Pixel 10 Pro XL in India?
As of January 2026, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is priced around ₹1.25 Lakh, but can be bought for approx ₹1.10 Lakh with bank offers during sales.
