The Android 16 beta update and March 2025 Pixel feature package released for Pixel devices for Pixel devices are not limited to system stability and new functions. There has also been a remarkable increase in the graphic performance side. This development was clearly observed especially in the tests performed through Vulkan API. The GPU scores obtained on Android 16 beta -loaded devices rose to significant proportions compared to the previous versions. It is understood that Google’s updates on graphic processor drivers are directly effective in this performance increase.
For example, Vulcan GPU scores increased by 62 %in the Pixel 7A model. Pixel 8 and Pixel 9 users recorded an increase of 31 %and 32 %, respectively. These rates are not limited to synthetic tests; It is possible for users to feel these improvements in games and applications with high graphic density. However, the same rate of performance increases may not be observed for each device and each application. In other words, in practice, every game or application may not be able to benefit from these improvements in the same way.
GPU Driver Update with Android 16 Beta presented
In addition, the development recorded in the Pixel 6 Pro is a remarkable example. In a Pixel 6 Pro with Android 16 beta, the Vulkan API score increased to 9397, and this value was reported to an increase of 34 %compared to the average score. In this model, an increase of 13.5 %was measured in the OpenCL test of Geekbench 6. These data show that there is a serious graphic splash, not only a new generation, but also on previous generation -based devices. This increase in graphic performance once again demonstrates how effective driver updates can be.
However, Google initially planned to end the software support of the Pixel 6 series with Android 15. In any case, this decision was reviewed and Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will be officially confirmed that the Android 16, as well as Android 17. This can be considered as a positive development for Pixel users in terms of software support time. The new GPU drivers were presented exactly within the framework of this ongoing support. Thus, the Pixel 6 series has moved a few steps forward in both the hardware and software.
Users who use the stable version of Android 15 are not excluded from these developments. Within the scope of March 2025 Pixel Feature Package, stable channel users have also accessed access to new GPU drivers. This offers users who do not want to switch to Android 16 Beta. In particular, GPU drivers who come with the update can provide lower delay times in applications and more stable square speeds. This stands out as an element that directly affects the daily use experience.
On the other hand, it should be noted that these improvements are limited to models with tensor processors. Google offered these GPU updates only to Pixel 6 and more devices. ARM Mali GPU units in these models allow Google to make changes to the driver level with software updates. On the other hand, since there is no such flexibility in older devices, performance increases remain unique to the latest generations. This stands out as a matter that users should pay attention to in the selection of models.
Although serious increases have been recorded in synthetic tests, it should not be forgotten that these differences may not always be felt in real usage scenarios. In particular, unopened games or applications with limited equipment access can benefit from new drivers limitedly. In addition, it should be taken into account that graphic performance may be special for application and the same results cannot be achieved in each model. In order for users to really experience the difference, tests in familiar games will give healthier results. at this point Geekbench 6 Test applications such as can be a useful tool for users who want to compare.
In spite of everything, this rise in Google’s graphic performance is remarkable in terms of showing how devices can be made more efficient by software. It is clear that Android updates do not only offer new features, but also offer a structure where the potential of the hardware can use more effectively. In the light of these developments, Pixel users are critical to make updates on time and get the highest yield from their devices. Both the Android 16 beta version and the March feature package have shown how effective the graphic performance -oriented updates can be. All this reunites the effect of software support on hardware performance.