Samsung is heading toward the launch of its Galaxy S26 series, but not everyone is impressed with what’s been shown so far. Well-known leaker Ice Universe has been critical of Samsung’s designs in the past, and now he’s calling out the Galaxy S26 Pro’s bezels—drawing comparisons with Xiaomi’s upcoming 16 Pro.

According to Ice Universe, the Galaxy S26 Pro doesn’t show much progress in trimming its bezels, while Xiaomi’s 16 Pro is taking a clear lead thanks to its use of “the most advanced technology in the industry”. The renders he posted show the Xiaomi 16 Pro with slimmer bezels and significantly more rounded corners, while the Galaxy S26 Pro appears almost identical to its predecessor. The leaker even suggested Samsung might be intentionally aligning with Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro look rather than chasing maximum screen-to-body ratio. This leak even reaffirms the previous rumor that Samsung is ditching the Note series’ signature boxy design, starting with the S26 Ultra.

He goes further, saying the Xiaomi 16 Pro could end up being the best-selling non-Ultra Android flagship, potentially putting real pressure on Samsung. That’s partly because Xiaomi seems to be going bigger on hardware as well: the 16 Pro is tipped to feature a 6,300 mAh battery, compared to the Galaxy S26’s modest 4,300 mAh pack.

Meanwhile, Samsung has been criticized for sticking with older camera hardware across multiple generations, while the Xiaomi 16 Pro is rumored to bring notable upgrades — including a larger main sensor — you can check out its leaked camera specifications here.

The Galaxy S26 series is expected in January 2026, while the Xiaomi 16 lineup is rumored to arrive in September 2025.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Xiaomi is expected to unveil the Xiaomi 16 series of smartphones later this month in China. A new leak reveals that the Xiaomi 16 Pro will feature a SmartSens-manufactured primary camera. Likely, it could be the same camera that’s expected to be available on the Huawei Mate 80 RS Ultimate, which is expected to debut later this year.

Xiaomi 16 Pro primary camera (rumored)

According to tipster Fixed Focus Digital, the Xiaomi 16 Pro will feature the 50-megapixel SmartSens SC590X. As per reports, the SC590XS is said to be built on a 22nm process and features a large 1/1.28-inch sensor with 1.2μm pixels. It supports QPD full-pixel autofocus, allowing every pixel to contribute to precise phase detection focusing.

The SC590XS is believed to support native 4K video recording at up to 120 frames per second, alongside a wide dynamic range that would give it an edge in handling complex lighting. The sensor may also be paired with a physical variable aperture, enabling a significantly higher intake of light than conventional setups.

Another detail being circulated is that the SC590XS could adopt Huawei’s RYYB pixel arrangement, which replaces one of the green sub-pixels in the traditional RGB matrix with yellow. Since yellow combines the brightness information of both red and green, this shift is theoretically capable of improving light capture by around 30 to 40 percent.

On the focusing front, the SC590XS reportedly incorporates Quad Phase Detection across all pixels. Combined with AI motion-tracking algorithms, this system is said to lock onto moving subjects quickly and reliably, even when the device is handheld or operating in low-light conditions.

Reports have revealed that the Xiaomi 16 Pro will debut along with the Xiaomi 16 and a new model Xiaomi 16 Pro Max or Mini, which will feature a 6.3-inch display. These devices are expected to debut as the world’s first phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.

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Xiaomi’s next flagships could make battery life a key selling point. According to a fresh leak, the upcoming Xiaomi 16 lineup is set to bring some of the biggest jumps in capacity we’ve seen yet, with Silicon-Carbon tech leading the way.

Tipster Yogesh Brar claims the standard Xiaomi 16 will carry a 7,000 mAh battery — a huge step up from the 5,240 mAh cell in the Xiaomi 15’s global model. The 16 Pro is said to come with 6,300 mAh, slightly more than the 6,100 mAh in the 15 Pro, despite whispers that the phone will be roughly the same size as the base version. At the top, the 16 Pro Max could feature a massive 7,500 mAh cell, making it one of the largest in any flagship phone to date.

These numbers aren’t out of the blue. Earlier leaks have hinted at similar figures, and they fit into a broader push by Chinese brands to adopt and iterate on Silicon-Carbon batteries before Apple, Samsung, or Google. The new series is also expected to debut with Qualcomm’s “Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5” chip, with a launch rumored for September 23. On the camera side, there’s chatter about a Xiaomi 16 Ultra sporting a 1-inch main sensor and a 200MP telephoto lens.

Xiaomi won’t be alone in the big-battery race. Both OnePlus and Oppo are said to be readying phones with capacities around the same 7,000–7,500 mAh mark, signaling where the industry is heading.

If accurate, these upgrades could give Xiaomi a big talking point — more capable yet longer-lasting flagships without bulky designs. And with launch season coming up fast, it won’t be long before we see how much of this holds true.

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Xiaomi has already begun blind reservations for its upcoming flagship series. While the company has not officially disclosed the product name, industry observers are convinced it is the Xiaomi 16 series. It is expected to debut as the world’s first phone powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip.

Xiaomi 16 series launch window

Qualcomm is expected to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (aka Snapdragon 8 Elite 2) chipset between Sept. 23 and 25 through the 2025 Snapdragon Summit event. Benchmark details suggest the chipset could deliver single-core scores above 4000 and multi-core results crossing 11,000, representing a significant leap over the previous generation. A recent leak by tipster Digital Chat Station revealed that Xiaomi may reveal the series between Sept. 24 and 26.

Leaks suggest four models in the lineup: the Xiaomi 16, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max or Pro Mini (tentative names) and 16 Ultra, with prices starting around 4,299 Yuan (~$600). The Ultra edition is expected to launch in the first half of 2026, whereas the other three phones will debut later this month.

The phones are said to introduce new display designs with rounded corners and wider proportions for better viewing comfort. Camera upgrades are also expected through the ongoing Leica partnership, while large batteries and faster charging are anticipated for longer endurance. Additionally, the entire lineup is likely to debut with the new HyperOS 3 system, offering smoother performance and improved intelligence across features.

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Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station has yet again hinted that the Xiaomi 16 series may launch in late September, sparking a wave of speculation about its exact debut date. His post has led many to believe that the lineup will be introduced around Sept. 24–26. This is earlier than last year’s Xiaomi 15 series, which arrived in October, indicating that the company could be accelerating its flagship schedule this year.

Xiaomi 16 series launch timeframe (rumored)

Based on the speculations in the comments section of the said Weibo post, the Xiaomi 16 series launch date could be Thursday, Sept. 25. The lineup is expected to include three models: the Xiaomi 16, Xiaomi 16 Pro, and Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini (tentative name).

These devices have already passed 3C certification and are confirmed to support 100W wired fast charging across all variants. The standard 16 and Pro Mini are said to feature 6.3-inch displays, while the Pro Max will offer a larger 6.8-inch screen.

The series will debut with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, also referred to as Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. Xiaomi has also confirmed that the 16 series will ship with the stable version of Hyper OS 3. The system delivers a smoother user experience through hotspot compilation acceleration, reducing CPU instructions by up to 4 percent and improving efficiency by as much as 10 percent. Testing shows that it can handle demanding multitasking, such as launching 22 applications back-to-back with floating windows, without visible stutter.

As seen in DCS’ post, Qualcomm is expected to unveil the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 on Sept. 23, whereas MediaTek is said to announce the Dimensity 9500 on Sept. 22. DCS added that official teasers of the upcoming flagship phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and Dimensity 9500 will begin this month. The Vivo X300 series and the Find X9 lineup featuring the Dimensity 9500 are expected to launch in October, whereas the Honor Magic 8 series, OnePlus 15, iQOO 15, and Realme GT 8 series, all equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, are expected to debut in October.

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The upcoming Xiaomi 16 series is expected to include three models: Xiaomi 16, Xiaomi 16 Pro and a new addition called the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini (tentative name). All three devices have reportedly cleared 3C certification in China, suggesting that the long-rumored September-end launch is likely on track.

Xiaomi 16 series 3C certified

As can be seen above, China’s 3C certification database has new listings for 25113PN0EC and 25098PN5AC. These model numbers reportedly belong to the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro, respectively.

Chinese tech bloggers, including Digital Chat Station, have claimed that another device with the 2509FPN0BC model number has also been approved by the 3C authority, but it is yet to be seen in the database. This device could be the rumored Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini.

Each of these devices is listed with an MDY-18-EW charger. The power brick supports multiple output modes, peaking at 20V 5A (100W). This confirms that the entire series will feature the 100W charging standard, regardless of size or variant.

The Xiaomi 16 series is expected to debut as the first to carry the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset. The Xiaomi 16 may continue with a smaller 6.3-inch class display and minimal bezels, while the Pro model is expected to have both 6.3-inch and 6.8-inch versions. Camera configurations could differ, with the standard edition featuring an OV50Q primary sensor and telephoto lens, while the Pro and Pro Max are said to adopt a larger Smartsens sensor with a periscope telephoto for enhanced zoom.

Battery capacity is another highlight, with leaks pointing to around 7000mAh for the Xiaomi 16 and 7500mAh for the Pro Max. The launch is anticipated to follow Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit, scheduled from Sept. 23 to 25, with availability in China first and international models to follow.

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Last week, tipster Digital Chat Station revealed that the Xiaomi 16 lineup may include three models, such as the Xiaomi 16, Xiaomi 16 Pro and Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini (tentative name). All three phones are expected to debut by the end of September in China. A new leak, courtesy of tipster Smart Pikachu, has revealed that the Xiaomi 16 Pro will see major changes.

Xiaomi 16 Pro display details tipped

According to the leak, the Xiaomi 16 Pro may feature a 6.8-inch flat OLED LTPO panel with 2K resolution. The screen is expected to have ultra-narrow bezels, giving it a balanced four-sided look. The screen is said to be equipped with new eye care technology, which can make it bright and soft at the same time. In comparison, the Xiaomi 15 Pro from last year features a slightly smaller 6.73-inch OLED panel with a micro-quad-curved design.

The leak also states that the device has a triple-camera setup on the back. While the tipster did not mention the camera sensors, the photography experience is said to outclass iPhones.

As per reports, the camera setup may include a SmartSens 590 50-megapixel main camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide lens and a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto camera with macro photography support. For selfies, it may feature a 50-megapixel front-facing camera with autofocus support. Under the hood, the device is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip and a battery of around 7,500mAh capacity with 100W charging support.

Rumours suggest that the Xiaomi 16 lineup may include a Pro Max model. However, it is unclear how will it differ from the 16 Pro. The 16 series will also include the Xiaomi 16 Ultra, which is expected to launch in the first half of 2026.

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The post Xiaomi 16 Pro’s display to arrive with major changes compared to Xiaomi 15 Pro. appeared first on Gizmochina.

The next generation of Android flagships isn’t too far off, and a fresh leak has revealed the names of some Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 powered premium devices. It appears that the upcoming Xiaomi 16 series might be the first to feature Qualcomm’s latest and greatest.

Xiaomi 16 Series Set to Launch Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 First

The new info arrives from known tipster Digital Chat Station (via NotebookCheck), who shared the details on Weibo. The Xiaomi 16, Xiaomi 16 Pro, and Xiaomi 16 Pro Max might be the first to debut this flagship Android chipset. This isn’t surprising considering the close relationship Xiaomi has had with Qualcomm. In the past, Xiaomi’s flagships have been the first to feature the newest Snapdragon 8 series processors.

A good example is the Xiaomi 15 lineup, which debuted in October 2024 with the Snapdragon 8 Elite. The Pro Max is a brand new entry from the company. There have even been rumors of a compact Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini model, which could feature a huge 6,300mAh battery, wireless charging, and a periscope telephoto shooter.

Keep in mind that this is still just an unconfirmed tip at the moment, so take this report with a pinch of salt for now. In related news, the Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro are slated to get big camera upgrades. The brand is also making major changes in its product positioning with the Xiaomi 16 lineup overall.

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The post Xiaomi 16 Series Could Launch as the First Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Flagship appeared first on Gizmochina.

As the smartphone industry charges toward fall 2025, the camera wars are heating up in a big way. Whether you’re a pro photographer or a casual shooter, these five upcoming smartphones, spanning Apple, Google, Vivo, and Xiaomi, are gearing up to redefine what mobile photography can do. Based on confirmed specs, leaks, and credible tipsters, here’s a detailed look at the most camera-centric phones set to debut in the coming weeks and months.

iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max

Apple is preparing to introduce its most significant front camera upgrade in years. All iPhone 17 models are expected to feature a new 24MP selfie camera, doubling the resolution found on the iPhone 16 series. This will improve image clarity and provide more flexibility when cropping.

The Pro Max model will stand out with a 48MP Wide, 48MP Ultra Wide, and 48MP Tetraprism Telephoto camera. This would make it the first iPhone to include three 48MP sensors and could also introduce native 8K video recording. Apple may also add support for dual video recording and a mechanical aperture system on the Pro models, giving users control over depth of field in photos.

The Pro Max could include an upgraded 8x optical zoom lens, a step up from the current 5x zoom on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The Pro models will remain the only iPhones with a dedicated telephoto lens, while the standard iPhone 17 and 17 Air will not include any optical zoom.

Google Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL

Google is expected to continue using the same camera configuration as last year on the Pixel 10 Pro series. Both the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL will include a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens. The front camera will use a 42MP sensor.

This year, both the ultra-wide and telephoto cameras will support macro photography. The ultra-wide sensor can focus as close as 2cm, while the telephoto can deliver brighter macro images with a minimum focusing distance of around 10cm.

The Pro XL will include a 5,200mAh battery and faster 39W wired charging. The standard Pro model will come with a slightly smaller 4,870mAh battery and 29W charging. Both devices will use Google’s new Tensor G5 processor and will run Android 16 out of the box.

Xiaomi 16 Pro

Xiaomi plans to upgrade the front-facing camera on the 16 Pro to a new 50MP sensor. The new camera will include autofocus, a wide field of view, and support for 4K at 60fps. This is a major improvement over the 32MP sensor used since the Xiaomi 13 series.

The rear camera setup will include a 50MP 1/1.3-inch primary sensor. The Pro model is expected to benefit from improved Leica image tuning and a ToF sensor to enhance portrait photography and depth accuracy.

The 16 Pro will run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset and could launch in late September.

Vivo X300 Pro

Vivo is preparing the X300 Pro with one of the most powerful camera systems in any upcoming smartphone. The device is expected to feature a 50MP Sony LYT-828 main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a 200MP periscope telephoto lens with a 1/1.4-inch sensor.

The main sensor will support Hybrid Frame HDR and a dynamic range exceeding 100dB. The periscope camera is expected to include new lens coating technology to reduce flare. Vivo may also offer high-quality in-sensor zoom modes at 35mm and 50mm crop lengths.

The X300 Pro will launch with the MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset and could be the first phone to ship with that chip. Vivo is expected to unveil the X300 Pro by October.

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Xiaomi has just marked its 14th anniversary, and the company’s president, Lu Weibing, shared a video to reflect on some of the most memorable Xiaomi smartphones. Towards the end of the video, he provided an update on the company’s future direction and hinted at what to expect from the upcoming Xiaomi 16 series. While he did not disclose much, he suggested that significant changes are on the horizon.

Xiaomi 16 series to feature new product positioning

According to Lu Weibing, the latest generation in Xiaomi’s digital series will undergo a major transformation in both product definition and positioning. His comments are widely interpreted as a direct reference to the Xiaomi 16 series, which is expected to debut in September. Reports suggest that the devices will be the first to feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset, marking a strong performance upgrade.

One of the key changes in the lineup is the introduction of a compact flagship under the Pro category. Unlike previous years, the Pro range will now include a smaller 6.3-inch variant alongside the standard 6.8-inch model. While the rumor mill has dubbed it as the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini, the final moniker could be different.

Four models expected in the lineup

The Xiaomi 16 series is expected to launch with four models: the Xiaomi 16, the Xiaomi 16 Pro, the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini, and later, the Xiaomi 16 Ultra. The expansion of the Pro series to include a smaller version is likely the significant change that Lu Weibing hinted at. As far as the Xiaomi 16 ultra is concerned, it is expected to debuted next year in China.

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Xiaomi is gearing up to launch its next flagship phones — the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro — with some of the biggest camera changes we’ve seen from the brand in years. The lineup is expected to debut in the last week of September 2025, and early leaks suggest photography will be a major focus this time.

Big jump in selfie and main camera hardware

A reliable tipster on Weibo, Digital Chat Station, claims both models will ditch the 32MP f/2.0 front camera that’s been around since the Xiaomi 13 series. In its place will be a new 50MP sensor with a wider field of view, autofocus, and continued support for 4K 60fps recording — a big plus for selfies and vlogging.

On the back, both phones are said to feature a 50MP 1/1.3-inch main sensor, with the Pro model getting a boost in dynamic range and a ToF sensor for better depth detection in portrait shots. Leica’s image tuning has also been improved.

The entire Xiaomi 16 series — which may also include a “Pro Max” — is expected to run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip. A leak from April also claims the base model will pack a massive 7,000mAh battery.

With the new image sensors and improved Leica tuning, it’ll be interesting to see how the Xiaomi 16 series stacks up against the Oppo Find X9 and Vivo X300 in challenging shooting conditions.

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The post Big camera upgrades tipped for Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro appeared first on Gizmochina.

Another tipster has just offered more details regarding Xiaomi‘s next gen flagship devices. This time around, the leak hints at a new periscope telephoto shooter for the Xiaomi 16 Pro. However, there might be a trade off to this supposed upgrade. So let’s get right into it.

Is Xiaomi’s New Periscope Camera on the 16 Pro Not an Upgrade?

According to tipster Kartikey Singh on X, the Chinese tech giant is moving away from Sony to bring a relatively new Samsung sensor for the periscope telephoto shooter on the Xiaomi 16 Pro. To recall, the Xiaomi 15 Pro packed the Sony IMX858 camera that offered 5x optical zoom and a 1/2.51-inch sensor size. However, the next gen Xiaomi 16 Pro will reportedly pack the Samsung ISOCELL JN5 sensor.

This camera has a smaller sensor size, measuring 1/2.76 inches and was recently featured on the Nothing Phone (3). But even more surprisingly, this is the telephoto camera featured on the base Xiaomi 15. However, the base model’s telephoto wasn’t a periscope shooter, and only offered 2.6x optical zoom, unlike the Phone (3)’s periscope lens with a 3x zoom. But sensor size doesn’t paint the whole picture, as the Xiaomi 16 Pro’s telephoto could even capture shots in macro mode.

Kartikey adds that the base Xiaomi 16 still won’t feature a periscope sensor, meaning its regular telephoto camera could remain unchanged over its predecessor. This also means that the base Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro may have even fewer differences between their camera systems. Unfortunately, it is still just a rumor at the moment, so take this report with a pinch of salt. But for more Xiaomi 16 series info, click here.

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Recent rumours have created some confusion about the devices that will be a part of the Xiaomi 16 series, which is expected to debut in China by the end of September. A recent leak by tipster Digital Chat Station revealed that the lineup will include two Pro models with 6.3-inch and 6.8-inch displays, along with a standard model that is expected to feature a screen size falling between those two. In a new leak, the tipster has claimed that this standard model will be a well-balanced, all-round performer.

Xiaomi 16 lineup may arrive with a 50MP selfie camera

According to the tipster, the Xiaomi 16 series will feature a 50-megapixel front-facing camera. While he has not mentioned it specifically, likely, the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini, Xiaomi 16, and Xiaomi 16 Pro may all feature a 50-megapixel selfie camera.

As for the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini (tentative name) model, since it packs high-end features like a large main camera sensor, a periscope telephoto lens, and wireless charging, its engineering prototype currently has a smaller battery compared to the standard Xiaomi 16 model. He added that this is not final, and efforts are ongoing to improve it.

Based on this information, the tipster suggests that the standard version might actually be a better choice for some users, as it offers a very balanced experience with a large battery, making it a well-rounded powerhouse.

While the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini and Xiaomi 16 Pro are expected to feature 6.3-inch and 6.8-inch displays, respectively, the Xiaomi 16 is likely to house a 6.5-inch screen. These devices are expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset.

The lineup is expected to include the Xiaomi 16 Ultra and Xiaomi 16S Pro, which are expected to launch in the first half of 2026. While the Xiaomi 16S Pro is likely to feature the next-generation Xring O2, it remains to be seen whether the 16 Ultra will feature the Xring O2 or the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 SoC.

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The post Xiaomi 16 series may feature 50MP front camera, Xiaomi 16 to be compelling all-rounder appeared first on Gizmochina.

Xiaomi is expected to unveil the Xiaomi 16 series of flagship phones by the end of September in China. In a new development, a charger designed for what appears to be the Xiaomi 16 series has received certification from China’s 3C authority. Here’s a look at the details that have surfaced through the certification.

Xiaomi’s new 100W charger 3C certified

As seen in the above screenshot, a new 100W fast charger with the model number MDY-18-EW has received 3C certification in China. The charger supports a wide voltage input (100–240V) and multiple output profiles, including 5V/3A, 9V/3A, 11V/6.1A Max, 21V/4.75A Max, and 20V/5A, reaching a maximum output of 100W. It is also backwards compatible with 67W and 90W charging standards.

The Redmi K80 Ultra, which debuted recently in China, supports 100W charging. However, it ships with a 120W charger. The Xiaomi 16 series phones could be the company’s first smartphones to support 100W charging using a 100W power brick.

Xiaomi has previously released a 100W GaN laptop charger with the model number MDY-16-EL, which is compatible with 100W PD and 100W private protocol fast charging. However, that charging head is primarily designed for laptops.

Xiaomi 16 series may ship with the new 100W charger

According to leaks, the new 100W power brick is being prepared for the Xiaomi 16 series, suggesting the flagship phones may debut with this charger in the box or as a bundled accessory. It is being said that the goal behind launching this new charger is to fully charge a 7,000mAh battery within one hour.

For those who don’t know, the Xiaomi 16 series is expected to feature a battery of around 7,000mAh capacity. There is also a possibility that the Xiaomi 16 Pro may pack a 7,500mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging support. On the other hand, the Xiaomi 16 may house a 7,000mAh battery.

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The post Xiaomi’s new 100W charger 3C certified, may ship with Xiaomi 16 series appeared first on Gizmochina.

Several reports have claimed that the Xiaomi 16 series of flagship phones will debut by September end this year. The Xiaomi 14 and 15 series consist of three models, such as standard, Pro, and Ultra. However, a new leak by tipster Digital Chat Station reveals that the 16 series will include as many as four models.

Xiaomi 16 series to comprise four models

According to DCS, the Xiaomi 16 Pro series will be offered in two display sizes—6.3 inches and 6.8 inches. Both versions are said to sport a large, horizontal matrix-style camera module that occupies nearly one-third of the rear panel.

It should be noted that this will be the first time Xiaomi will introduce a compact-sized Pro variant in the number series. The standard Xiaomi 16 is also expected to feature a 6.3-inch screen, while the entire series could comprise four models: Xiaomi 16, Xiaomi 16 Pro, Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini (tentative name), and Xiaomi 16 Ultra.

Both Pro variants are tipped to include a periscope telephoto lens for an enhanced photography experience. The Ultra version, which is also being as the Xiaomi 16 Pro Max, may feature a Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra-like secondary display on the back.

The image shared by the tipster shows camera lens protectors featuring wide, horizontally aligned layouts, matching leaks about the Xiaomi 16 Pro’s new “big matrix” camera design. It includes multiple variants, hinting at two Pro sizes (6.3 and 6.8 inches) and suggesting the presence of a periscope telephoto lens cutout. The protectors visually support the leak’s claim that Xiaomi is adopting a bold new camera module style for its upcoming flagship lineup. While the design is new, it appears quite similar to the horizontal camera layout seen in recent leaks of the iPhone 17 series.

The entire Xiaomi 16 series is expected to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, which will debut in September this year. This new flagship platform features Qualcomm’s second-gen Oryon CPU architecture and is built on TSMC’s 3nm process. The GPU gets a 16MB independent cache, with estimated Geekbench 6 scores of over 4,000 (single core) and 11,000 (multi-core).

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Qualcomm recently confirmed that it will hold the 2025 Snapdragon Summit in September this year. This gave birth to rumors that the Xiaomi 16 series equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip will debut by the end of the said month. Xiaomi’s upcoming 16 series smartphones are making headlines again, with official confirmation from Xiaomi and Qualcomm shedding light on the chipset strategy for their next-generation devices. The announcement not only dispels ongoing speculation but also provides a clearer picture of how Xiaomi will integrate its self-developed Xring chip alongside Qualcomm’s Snapdragon SoCs.

Xiaomi 16 series will debut with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2

Xiaomi and Qualcomm have signed a new multi-year partnership agreement, reaffirming their long-standing collaboration. Under this agreement, Xiaomi will continue to launch multiple flagship models featuring Snapdragon 8 series chipsets. As part of the arrangement, the Xiaomi 16 will be among the first to ship with the next-gen Snapdragon 8-series chip (Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 – tentative name), expected later this year. This confirms that Xiaomi is not breaking ties with Qualcomm, as previously rumored, but is instead reinforcing its alliance for future product generations.

CEO Lei Jun remarked that Qualcomm remains a key partner in Xiaomi’s global growth story, emphasizing their shared commitment to high-quality, innovative products. Xiaomi aims to strengthen its position in the premium smartphone segment by combining Snapdragon’s performance with its own hardware-software synergies.

Xring may power Xiaomi 16S Pro and Xiaomi 16 Ultra

The Xiaomi 15S Pro, launching tomorrow in China, will debut with the company’s in-house Xring O1 chip. It’s likely that its successor will continue this trend, integrating Xiaomi’s own chipset. While the standard Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro will feature the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 processor, Xiaomi’s in-house SoC, however, is expected to be reserved for select high-end models like the Xiaomi 16S Pro and Xiaomi 16 Ultra.

This selective deployment suggests that the Xring chip is designed to complement, not replace, Snapdragon solutions. As production capacity for Xring is still ramping up, Xiaomi will continue relying on Snapdragon for volume flagships.

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The post Xiaomi 16 series officially confirmed to feature Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, Xring may power Xiaomi 16 Ultra, 16S Pro appeared first on Gizmochina.

Xiaomi will unveil its Xiaomi 16 series of flagship phones later this year in China. As is tradition, the company is expected to unveil the standard Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro models first, with the Ultra variant likely arriving sometime next year.

Ahead of the announcement, both the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro have surfaced in the GSMA IMEI database, hinting at regional availability and offering a few early clues about what to expect.

Xiaomi 16 Pro model number confirms China exclusivity

Here are the model numbers associated with the upcoming phones (via XiaomiTime):

Xiaomi 16

• 25113PN0EC (China)
• 25113PN0EG (Global)
• 25113PN0EI (India)

Xiaomi 16 Pro

• 2509FPN0BC (China)
• 25098PN5AC (China)

Based on these listings, it looks like the 16 Pro will once again be limited to the Chinese market. Interestingly, two model numbers have been registered for the Pro; these could be the two configurations of the phone. There’s no official word on what sets them apart, but it wouldn’t be surprising if one version includes satellite connectivity or ships with a ceramic body.

The base model, on the other hand, seems to have a single configuration. It will be available in China, India, and global markets, and its internal codename has already leaked: “Nezha.”

What to expect from the Xiaomi 16 series?

According to a report, Xiaomi 16 will be the first smartphone to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset. The leak further states that the device is being tested with a 6,800mAh battery coupled with 100W charging. 

Meanwhile, the Pro is rumored to adopt a flat display. According to leaks, the screen will be a 6.85-inch LTPO OLED panel with 2K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. 

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(Source)

The post Xiaomi 16 Series to Launch Without Pro Variant in India Once Again appeared first on Gizmochina.

Chinese smartphone makers are ahead of the curve in terms of battery technology, which is especially true for two upcoming compact devices. The Vivo X200 FE and Xiaomi 16 are expected to bring massive battery packs. While the X200 FE has already been spotted in recent leaks, the Xiaomi 16 is getting a new compact flagship rival with the Vivo X300 Pro Mini.

Vivo X300 Pro Mini: Upcoming compact flagship with big batteries

The latest information arrives from known tipster Yogesh Brar, who shared details regarding the Vivo X200 FE, Xiaomi 16, and even the Vivo X300 Pro Mini. In a recent tweet, Brar claimed that the Vivo X200 FE will pack a sizeable 6,500mAh battery pack, which is in line with our previous reports. On the other hand, the Xiaomi 16 has an even larger 6,800mAh cell.

But one of the more interesting details revealed in the tweet was info regarding the new Vivo X300 Pro Mini. Just like the X200 series, the Vivo X300 lineup is rumored to consist of a X300, X300 Pro Mini, X300 Pro, X300 Ultra. Now, the tweet claims that the Vivo X300 Pro Mini is “in between” the Xiaomi 16 and Vivo X200 FE in terms of battery size, which is around 6,500mAh and 6,800mAh capacity.

The tipster states that the Vivo X200 FE is set to debut in the first half of this year, so the device should be here by July. It is expected to be a rebranded version of the Vivo S30 Pro Mini. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 16 is expected to launch in H2 2025. Considering how the Xiaomi 15 debuted in China in October 2024, the next gen flagship might also get a similar launch timeframe.

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The post New Vivo X300 Pro Mini arriving with a huge battery, matching the Xiaomi 16 & X200 FE appeared first on Gizmochina.

A recent leak from tipster Digital Chat Station has revealed the launch timeframe of Qualcomm’s upcoming flagship, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 (tentative name). As the name suggests, it will succeed the original Snapdragon 8 Elite chip that was officially launched in October last year. Continue reading ahead to know the rumored specs, launch timeframe, and expected devices that will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.

Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 launch timeframe (rumored)

According to the tipster, Qualcomm will announce the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 at the end of September this year. He added that the first devices featuring the new chip will launch in October. This move is seen as Qualcomm’s direct challenge to Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series, which is expected to make its appearance in September. It is speculated that the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro will be the first phones to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.

Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 specifications (rumored)

According to reports, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset will come with significant performance upgrades compared to its predecessor. The CPU is expected to run at a base frequency of 4.4GHz, slightly higher than the 4.32GHz of the previous model. Additionally, this new chip features a second-generation self-developed CPU architecture, with the GPU’s dedicated cache increasing from 12MB to 16MB, resulting in a 30% overall performance boost.

In terms of manufacturing, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 uses TSMC’s third-generation 3nm process. This provides a 4% performance boost while reducing power consumption by 9% compared to the previous generation, without altering the clock speeds. The chip also integrates the new SME instruction set, a part of the Arm64 architecture, which is designed to enhance multimedia and graphics processing capabilities, making it more efficient in handling these tasks.

Upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 phones

Alongside the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro, other devices expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 include the Redmi K90 Pro, Realme GT 8 Pro, OnePlus 14, iQOO 14, Xiaomi 16 Ultra, Vivo X300 Ultra, and the Oppo Find X9 Ultra. The Ultra variants mentioned here are expected to launch in the first half of 2026.

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The post Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 tipped to launch in September, read specifications, expected phones appeared first on Gizmochina.

A recent report suggested that Xiaomi’s upcoming 16 Pro could feature a 3D-printed metal middle frame, and now, another well-known tipster, Digital Chat Station (DCS), has backed up the claim while providing some additional details.

As previously reported, Xiaomi is reportedly opting for a 3D-printed metal frame to reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity. However, DCS says the impact on thermals will depend on the material Xiaomi chooses for the frame. The potential options include aluminum or titanium.

Interestingly, the leak also suggests that 3D printing might not be as expensive at scale as we might expect it to be. 

DCS says there is a “cost advantage in volume”, meaning while the technology can be costly for low-volume production, mass manufacturing could actually lower costs for Xiaomi. So 3D frame seems like a viable option rather than an expensive premium feature.

Xiaomi 16 Pro may also get a customizable button

DCS also suggests the Xiaomi 16 Pro may feature an extra button on the frame. And based on the leak, it seems like a customizable button that can be used as an AI button, a pressure-sensitive gaming button, a dedicated camera shutter or as a mute switch. 

If this pans out, users may be able to configure the button based on their needs, similar to the Action Button on the iPhone 16 Pro.

However, there is one small trade-off. The report claims that adding this button could lead to a reduction in battery size by 100mAh. That said, Xiaomi 16 Pro is still expected to pack a massive 7000mAh battery, which should more than compensate for the slight capacity drop.

More importantly, according to DCS, the Xiaomi 16 Pro—likely alongside the standard model—is expected to launch around October.

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(Source)

The post Xiaomi 16 Pro’s 3D metal frame will have an extra customizable button appeared first on Gizmochina.

Xiaomi’s 15 series flagship lineup finally made its global debut this week, and its Indian launch is scheduled for March 11. While it may seem too early to discuss the Xiaomi 16 series, the ever-churning smartphone rumor mill says otherwise.

According to a new leak, the Xiaomi 16 Pro could feature 3D-printed frames. The tip comes from TF Securities International analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, who shared the information on X (formerly Twitter).

Kuo claims the Xiaomi 16 Pro will feature a metal mid-frame produced with 3D printing technology from Chinese supplier Bright Laser Technologies. 

Kuo notes that the 3D-printed structure’s hollow design could help reduce the phone’s weight while improving thermal performance — all without compromising structural strength.

3D tech has its limitations

That said, 3D printing isn’t exactly the most efficient manufacturing process, as it builds objects layer by layer, slowing down production. There’s also the question of cost, which is likely to be higher than conventional manufacturing methods. 

But Kuo suggests smartphone makers could increasingly adopt 3D printing if its advantages outweigh the downsides, especially in applications where efficiency isn’t the primary concern.

It’s a bit reminiscent of what Sharp attempted back in the early 2000s with the mova SH251iS, the first phone with a glasses-free 3D display. The concept was ahead of its time, but the tech had its limitations—working only from certain angles. 

Fast-forward a couple of decades, and we now have devices like the ZTE Nubia Pad 3D, which offer vastly improved glasses-free 3D screens.

3D-printed smartphone frames shouldn’t be as complex as making true 3D displays, but widespread adoption will take time.

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Xiaomi recently confirmed that it will hold a launch event on March 2 to unveil the Xiaomi 15 series for the global market. While the brand is gearing up for the 15 series’ global launch, the rumor mill has already started leaking details about the Xiaomi 16 series. A new leak by tipster Digital Chat Station talks about the Xiaomi 16 Pro’s display design and specifications.

Xiaomi 16 Pro may feature a cutting-edge display

While the tipster has not explicitly revealed the phone’s name in the above leak, the Chinese media is speculating that he could be talking about the Xiaomi 16 Pro. As per the leak, the 16 Pro will sport a flat-screen design with ultra-thin, uniform bezels. It will be a massive 6.85-inch LTPO OLED panel that offers a 2K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate.

He added that the display will incorporate LIPO technology, ensuring a symmetrical, narrow-border look. This advancement is expected to surpass the bezel control of Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro models, which currently have side bezels measuring 1.44mm and top and bottom bezels at 1.41mm.

In the past, Xiaomi has consistently offered similar displays on its Pro and Ultra flagship models. For instance, the Xiaomi 12 Pro and 12S Ultra, 13 Pro and 13 Ultra, and 14 Pro and 14 Ultra all shared the same screen sizes. The upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra is also expected to feature a 6.73-inch display, matching the 15 Pro.

Given this pattern, it is likely that the Xiaomi 16 Ultra will also come with a 6.85-inch screen, considering that the Xiaomi 16 Pro is rumored to feature a 6.85-inch display. DCS has previously claimed that 2025 flagship phones will adopt a completely flat-screen design. In a recent leak, he revealed that the entire Oppo Find X9 series, which is said to include four models, will sport a flat-screen design. Therefore, the 16 Ultra is also expected to feature a flat panel.

The Xiaomi 16 Pro is expected to debut with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 in October of this year. The Ultra model, on the other hand, is expected to launch with the same chip in the first half of 2026.

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The post Xiaomi 16 Pro, 16 Ultra may feature a 6.85-inch flat display appeared first on Gizmochina.

Xiaomi has been offering telephoto cameras on its numbered series flagship phones for the past couple of years. However, for the Xiaomi 15 series, it switched to a periscope telephoto camera in the 15 Pro model, while the standard 15 came equipped with a telephoto camera. A new rumor suggests that the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro will both feature a periscope telephoto camera.

Xiaomi 16 series to feature periscope telephoto camera

According to a reliable leak by Digital Chat Station, an upcoming flagship phone equipped with the SM8850 chip is expected to feature a periscope telephoto camera across its entire series. The SM8850 chip refers to the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, which is expected to launch in October 2025. The flagship series that the tipster seems to be talking about appears to be the Xiaomi 16 series, which is expected to debut as the first Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chip phones.

A recent leak by the same source revealed that the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 will be built with TSMC’s N3P manufacturing process. This tech is expected to bring improvements in performance and efficiency. Additionally, the new chip is said to offer significantly better GPU performance than its predecessor, the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

The tipster further said that the Xiaomi 16 series is yet to enter the PVT (Product Validation Testing) stage. He speculates that the 16 lineup will enter the PVT stage in the second quarter of 2025.

At present, it is too early to talk about the Xiaomi 16 series as the Xiaomi 15 series is yet to be released globally. It is speculated that the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro are scheduled to hit the global market by Q1 2025. Concrete details of the Xiaomi 16 series are expected to surface around Q2 2025 when it enters the PVT stage.

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