Summary
Xiaomi is skipping the 16 series and launching the Xiaomi 17 series this September to compete directly with Apple’s iPhone 17. The lineup includes three flagships powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, featuring big batteries, Leica cameras, and premium durability ratings.
Xiaomi has officially confirmed that its next flagship lineup, the Xiaomi 17 series, will debut in September 2025 in China. In a bold move, the company is skipping the “16” lineup entirely, jumping straight to 17 — a clear attempt to go head-to-head with Apple’s iPhone 17.
Three Models in the Lineup
The series will include three smartphones: Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi 17 Pro, and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. All three will run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, promising top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking and heavy usage.
Display and Cameras
Xiaomi is pairing the new chip with LTPO OLED displays offering 1.5K resolution and 120Hz adaptive refresh rates. On the camera side, the company is continuing its partnership with Leica, bringing a setup of multiple 50MP sensors. This includes an OmniVision primary camera and a Samsung ISOCELL JN5 telephoto lens, while the front shooter is expected to be 32MP.
Big Focus on Battery and Charging
Battery life could become a key selling point. The standard Xiaomi 17 may come with a massive 7,000mAh battery, while the higher-end models are tipped to pack even larger cells. Charging speeds won’t disappoint either, with support for 100W wired and 50W wireless charging.
Durability and Premium Features
The phones will be IP68 and IP69 certified, making them extra-resistant to dust and water. Xiaomi is also introducing an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor — usually seen on premium flagships — to enhance security and usability.
R&D Investment to Challenge Apple and Samsung
Lu Weibing, Xiaomi’s President, revealed that the company has invested over 100 million Yuan (around ₹1,240 crore) in R&D over the last five years, with plans to double that figure soon. He stressed that Xiaomi’s goal is to create true premium devices without cutting corners or pushing prices too high.
Global Launch Expected Later
While the China launch is set for September, global markets are also expected to get the devices shortly after. With this bold strategy, Xiaomi aims to be seen not just as a more affordable alternative, but as a direct competitor to Apple and Samsung in the ultra-premium segment.