Xiaomi is getting ready to launch its next big flagship lineup, and even though the company hasn’t officially revealed the name, we know what’s coming. The Xiaomi 16 series has already gone up for blind orders in China, which usually means we’re only weeks away from a proper unveiling.
The Xiaomi 16 series will be the first to show off Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, which succeeds the Snapdragon 8 Elite from the Xiaomi 15 series. Here’s everything we know about the Xiaomi 16 lineup ahead of launch.
1. Four models, one big lineup
According to leaks, Xiaomi is preparing four different models this time:
- Xiaomi 16
- Xiaomi 16 Pro
- Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini (or Pro Max, depending on naming)
- Xiaomi 16 Ultra
The Xiaomi 16, 16 Pro, and possibly the Pro Max are expected to arrive right after Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit (September 23–25, 2025). The Xiaomi 16 Ultra will likely follow later, sometime in the first half of 2026.
Chinese certification listings already confirm new devices with model numbers 25113PN0EC (Xiaomi 16) and 25098PN5AC (Xiaomi 16 Pro). Another device, believed to be the Pro Max, has also surfaced under the model code 2509FPN0BC.
2. Design and displays
From what’s leaked so far, the Xiaomi 16 may bring a new design this year. The Pro Max, in particular, has appeared in leaks with a camera bar stretching across the width of the phone. It’s even rumored to include a rear display similar to the Xiaomi 11 Ultra.
The Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro are said to feature 6.3-inch displays with ultra-thin bezels, while the larger Pro Max/Ultra could stretch to 6.8 inches. Xiaomi also seems to be experimenting with a compact Pro variant for the first time, which might appeal to users who want flagship specs in a smaller size.
As for screen tech, it’s safe to expect OLED panels with 2K resolution and high refresh rates, consistent with previous top-end Xiaomi flagships.
On the hardware side, Xiaomi may use 3D-printed metal frames for the Pro models. The idea is to reduce weight while maintaining durability. Depending on whether the company chooses aluminum or titanium, the effect on thermals could differ. Interestingly, mass manufacturing might actually make 3D-printed frames cheaper, not more expensive.
3. Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is almost here
Qualcomm is expected to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 between September 23 and 25 at the Snapdragon Summit 2025 in Hawaii.
Early benchmarks show single-core scores above 4,000 and multi-core results crossing 11,000. On the software side, the Xiaomi 16 series is tipped to ship with HyperOS 3.0 on top of Android 16.
Tipster Digital Chat Station, a reliable source on Chinese smartphones, claims Xiaomi is lining up its launch for September 24–26, immediately after Qualcomm’s announcement. That timing would be in line with Xiaomi’s history of being the first brand to showcase Qualcomm’s latest flagship chip.
4. Charging and battery life
All three certified models list the same charger: the MDY-18-EW, a 100W power brick. That means 100W wired charging should be standard across the lineup, regardless of size or tier.
However, battery sizes will vary across models. According to reports, the base Xiaomi 16 will pack around 7,000mAh, while the larger Pro Max (or Ultra) could climb as high as 7,500mAh. Even the rumored compact Pro Mini is said to include a sizable 6,300mAh cell, with wireless charging support.
5. Cameras
The Xiaomi 16 is expected to feature a 50MP OV50Q main sensor, accompanied by telephoto and ultra-wide cameras on the rear.
The Xiaomi 16 Pro and Pro Max are rumored to upgrade to a SmartSens 590 50-megapixel main sensor, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide, and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto with macro support. On the front, all three models could include a 50-megapixel selfie camera with autofocus.
6. A global rollout
Like most Xiaomi flagships, the 16 series will debut in China first. A device believed to be the global Xiaomi 16 has already appeared in the EEC certification database, confirming variants for China, India, and international markets.
But a global release won’t be immediate. The Xiaomi 15 received EEC certification in May 2024 but didn’t launch outside China until March 2025. If that pattern holds, the Xiaomi 16 might not reach international markets until early 2026.
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