Google has released initial device tree files for its Pixel 10 smartphone series, enabling the mainline Linux kernel to boot on these devices. This move allows developers to run non-Android operating systems, marking a step toward greater open-source hardware support. The patches, shared via kernel.org, cover the Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Pixel 10 Pro XL models launched in August 2025.
The release of these device trees represents an early effort to integrate Pixel 10 hardware with the vanilla Linux kernel, bypassing Google's customized Android kernel forks. Chromium engineer Sami Kyöstilä posted the files on kernel.org, providing descriptions for the Tensor G5 SoC, manufactured by TSMC on a 3nm process. These device trees detail key components, including the CPU, GPU from Imagination Technologies, and MediaTek T900 modem.
Google software engineer Douglas Anderson detailed the patches in an email to the Linux Kernel Mailing List (LKML), stating: "This series adds barebones device trees for Pixel 10 (frankel), Pixel 10 Pro (blazer), and Pixel 10 Pro XL (mustang). With a yet-unreleased bootloader these can boot to a UART command prompt from an initramfs."
The Pixel 10 series, launched in August 2025, builds on previous upstreaming efforts for models like the Pixel 9. Currently, the support is initial and functional only to a text-based console, requiring a custom bootloader not yet public. Full integration may need additional patches for features like power management or proprietary drivers.
This development signals Google's evolving open-source strategy, potentially accelerating custom ROMs and alternative OS installations. It positions Pixel devices as more accessible for Linux enthusiasts, contrasting with closed ecosystems. While booting is possible, the path to fully utilizing smartphone features under non-Android Linux remains lengthy, with ongoing collaboration between Google and kernel maintainers essential for refinement.