The Xiaomi 16 series is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated smartphone launches of the year. Expected to succeed last year’s Xiaomi 15 lineup, the upcoming devices could debut sooner than many expected. According to leaks, the Xiaomi 16 and Xiaomi 16 Pro will likely be the first phones powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 processor, also referred to as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Both models are also tipped to feature a triple rear camera setup, including two 50-megapixel cameras.
Launch Timeline
A trusted Chinese tipster, Digital Chat Station, recently claimed on Weibo that the first smartphone with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 / Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 could launch between September 24 and 26. While the leak didn’t directly name the phones, the comments strongly suggest this timeline is for the Xiaomi 16 series.
If true, this would mark an earlier launch than the Xiaomi 15 series, which was introduced in late October 2024. The timing also lines up with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit in Hawaii, starting September 23, where the new flagship processor is expected to be officially announced.
Expected Specifications
The Xiaomi 16 series is rumored to include the Xiaomi 16, Xiaomi 16 Pro, and a new Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini. A more premium Xiaomi 16 Ultra is expected to follow in 2026. All devices are expected to run on Android 16 with Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 interface.
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Displays: The Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro Mini may feature 6.3-inch screens, while the 16 Pro could sport a larger 6.8-inch display.
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Cameras: Both the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro are said to come with a triple rear camera setup, including a 50-megapixel primary sensor and a 50-megapixel ultrawide lens, along with a 50-megapixel selfie camera on the front.
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Battery: The standard Xiaomi 16 is rumored to pack a huge 7,000mAh battery, offering more endurance compared to previous models.
What to Expect
If these leaks are accurate, the Xiaomi 16 series could set a new benchmark for Android flagships this year. With the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset, upgraded cameras, larger batteries, and HyperOS 3 on Android 16, Xiaomi looks ready to take on competitors in the premium smartphone space.
