Pixel 10 Prototype Motherboard Surfaces Online Ahead of Official Launch

Google's next-generation Pixel 10 lineup is creating a lot of hype, and the recent news has thrown an unexpected twist into the pre-launch frenzy. A so-called Pixel 10 prototype motherboard has shown up online not in the form of a usual tech leak or certification listing, but on a Chinese auction website called Goofish. This surprise list, initially detected by 9to5Google, provides critical information regarding the design and internal hardware of much-awaited Pixel phone and indicates the device has entered the Engineering Validation Testing (EVT) stage, one of the last stages before mass production.

Alleged Pixel 10 Prototype Reveals Major Design Features

The post on Xianyu states the component originates from a Pixel 10 prototype, the EVT stage in particular, which is a turning point in production when mass manufacturing eventually starts. The seller has also shared clear images of the phone, offering fans an idea of how the new model looks.

From the photos, the phone seems to follow Google's distinctive design language in earlier Pixel releases. It has rounded edges, flat corners, and the familiar horizontal camera bar on the rear. In particular, the model in the images has three camera lenses, a marked departure from the dual-camera setup of the Pixel 9. Assuming this is accurate, the addition probably brings a telephoto lens to the camera feature, following previous rumors about camera-centric enhancements in the Pixel 10 series. The presence of the familiar Google "G" logo also lends credibility to the leak.

Tensor G5 Chip Mentioned, But Fumed by Maker

The most captivating component of the leak is in the internal hardware. The motherboard in the prototype has a "Tensor G5" label, meaning that it would have Google's next-generation custom processor. There is a surprising inconsistency in the following details, though. The motherboard also bears the "SEC" marking, which normally refers to Samsung Electronics Co. as the maker.

This has raised eyebrows throughout the tech world. For months, various credible reports have indicated that Google plans to move production of its Tensor chips beginning with the G5 away from Samsung and into the hands of TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company). The change would most likely enhance performance and efficiency, considering TSMC's sophisticated fab techniques. Therefore, the sighting of a Samsung-made Tensor G5 may indicate that this is an initial test unit prior to the full production of the TSMC version, or that the switch to TSMC is not yet complete.

How Credible is the Leak?

Although the listing provides tech fans an interesting preliminary glimpse, it's important to mention that this prototype is yet to be officially confirmed by Google. The legitimacy of both the motherboard and the photos of the prototype is unauthenticated. But the hardware look-around, EVT stage assertion, and congruity with current Pixel design language lend the listing some authenticity that cannot be overlooked.

Additionally, leaks of this type particularly during EVT tend to suggest imminent final design and hardware decisions. The images corroborate the theory that Google will finally launch a triple-lens camera setup, further cementing the Pixel line as a top player in the high-end smartphone market, particularly when it comes to camera capabilities and AI-powered imaging features.

Official Launch Set for August 13

Thankfully, fans won’t have to wait too long to find out whether this leak holds true. Google is expected to officially unveil the Pixel 10 series on August 13, 2025. Until then, the prototype motherboard and images from the Xianyu auction offer an unofficial, yet potentially insightful preview into Google’s future flagship.

With the launch date nearing, anticipation regarding the Pixel 10's camera, performance, and chip-making revelations is likely to increase. Whether Google continues to use Samsung or makes a move to TSMC for its Tensor G5, the Pixel 10 will be a pivotal launch that determines the brand's standing within the smartphone industry.