In a bold move, Xiaomi is skipping the 16 series and launching the Xiaomi 17 series this month in China. This decision signals Xiaomi’s ambition to directly compete with Apple’s iPhone 17 series in the premium smartphone segment.

Skipping the 16 generation is more than a numbering change. Xiaomi positions the 17 series as a “generational leap” in performance, design, and features, aligning its flagship directly against Apple’s high-end offerings.

The series will include three models:

All models will run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, offering top-tier performance, improved efficiency, and superior thermal management.

The Xiaomi 17 series is expected to deliver upgrades in display, durability, and battery life. The standard model is likely to feature a 6.3-inch OLED display with 1.5K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. Durability and power efficiency are emphasized, with expected IP68/69 water and dust resistance, an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, and a large battery supporting high-speed wired and wireless charging.

The 17 Pro Max stands out with a dual display, allowing the rear screen to run full-screen apps and expand functionality beyond traditional designs.

Xiaomi aims to stake its claim in the high-end segment. With cutting-edge cameras, innovative design, and flagship-grade performance, the 17 series is positioned to challenge the premium smartphone market directly.

By skipping the 16 series, Xiaomi signals that the 17 lineup is a serious contender. Advanced features, dual-display innovation, and powerful performance make the Xiaomi 17 series a compelling alternative to the iPhone 17, demonstrating Xiaomi’s intent to compete at the highest level in the premium market.