Current trends in supply chain news show a growing influence of higher memory cost on product lines in various segments offered by Xiaomi. As per latest news in the industry, some of these available tablets from the brand have undergone pricing revisions, with future mid-range smartphones being influenced in storage capacity.
According to industry blogger Digital Chat Station, some of the Xiaomi-brand tablets have seen a price hike of 100-300 Chinese yuan, which will translate to 14-42 USD when converted to other currencies. This move by the Chinese manufacturer can be attributed to an increase in memory component prices. The prices will most definitely affect tablets in the mid-range segment.
The price hike in memory chips is not confined to Xiaomi. Other smartphone brands are also reportedly set to make a similar change in existing mid-range devices with a price hike in a 14-42 USD bracket. The memory chips such as LPDDR and NAND have become an important part of the cost of materials of an Android smartphone, especially in a segment where higher storage and RAM capacity become a major specification factor.
Rising memory costs will push vendors to rebalances product specs and pricing. For a company such as Xiaomi, which historically launched devices with very aggressive specs at competitive pricing, this trend will call for careful consideration.
1TB Storage May Disappear From Mid-Range Models
One of the most evident implications of these cost considerations is a rumored adjustment in future product lines. Reports have emerged that some new mid-range smartphones expected in 2026 will stop production of 1TB storage models altogether. Although flagship phones are set to support higher storage variants, mid-rangers can expect to see well-rounded variants to keep prices under control.
Such an approach will complement Xiaomi’s strategy of optimizing their hardware offerings in a manner which will allow sustainability in whatever product segment they are in. As a consequence, consumers can expect less ultra-high storage capacity in mid-segment phones but a stable pricing structure in basic variants.
Industry Outlook Indicates Further Changes Ahead
Recently, a market analysis conducted by TrendForce showcased a key point in which expectations of increased memory prices in early 2026 are further increasing pressure on smartphone, tablet, and laptop brands. Therefore, brands will adjust their pricing strategies and redefine specifications in budget segments. Resource superiority will remain with leading brands boasting better supply chain capabilities.
For Xiaomi, these developments indicate a time of readjusting rather than disruption. The pricing and storage shifts in their tablets are simply a part of an industry-wide trend. However, consumers can still update their system apps using HyperOSUpdates.com, or through the MemeOS Enhancer application offered in Google Play Store, which will give them access to hidden functions in their Xiaomi device and system update capabilities.
XiaomiTime has spotted the REDMI K90 Ultra in the GSMA database, indicating that Xiaomi has already begun the official global registration process for its next-generation Ultra performance smartphone. Given past occurrences with the Xiaomi T series, such early detections hint towards an earlier-than-usual launch timeline.
GSMA Listing Suggests an Earlier Launch Window
The model number 2604FRK1EC in the GSMA database entry proves that the REDMI K90 Ultra has already entered formal certification stages. Traditionally, Ultra models starting with “06” identifiers are registered around June and their announcement occurs closer to August. However, fresh Xiaomi strategies possibly hint at a shift, much like how the Xiaomi 17T series is reportedly going to shift its launch schedules forward.
This change strongly suggests that the REDMI K90 Ultra may be officially released as early as April or May, marking a notable adjustment in Xiaomi’s flagship release planning. Such timing will enable Xiaomi to position the device more competitively in the first half of the year.
Dimensity 9500+ Expected as the Core Platform
As per the information received on the ground from supply chain sources, the REDMI K90 Ultra is supposedly fitted with the upcoming Dimensity 9500+ chipset by MediaTek. It would significantly focus on power efficiency, sustained performance in high workloads, and enhanced AI processing.
Such a move would confirm the recent strategy of Xiaomi to match Ultra models with the most advanced silicon MediaTek has to offer for flagship-level performance while maintaining thermal stability and battery efficiency.
Massive 10,000 mAh Battery in a Slim Body
Previous leaks have shown that the REDMI K90 Ultra could boast an unusually large 10,000 mAh battery, married to a body thickness of about 8.6 mm. If true, this combination would put the device in a class all its own, with extreme endurance without the bulk typically found with high-capacity batteries.
Such a construction hints that Xiaomi is eyeing technologies of advanced battery density, making the REDMI K90 Ultra suitable for users who take long usage cycles of running, gaming, and extended outdoor activity without frequent charging.
China-Exclusive Launch With Global Path of Xiaomi T Series
Like its predecessors of the REDMI K Ultra series, the REDMI K90 Ultra is likely to be launched only in China. But these phones always come later in modified form for the worldwide market, carrying the branding of the Xiaomi T series, so this GSMA listing finds vital importance for international users who have been keeping tabs on upcoming Xiaomi T models.
The smartphone product line offered by Xiaomi is divided into distinct segments of consumers, and the REDMI C series has a particular role in this product diversification. Having a designation in between other budget options such as REDMI A series and more advanced smartphones in the form of REDMI Note series, REDMI devices emphasize budget and basic requirements. REDMI 13C and REDMI 14C models are widely distributed in most regions, including Türkiye. Further analysis in this article discloses if the REDMI C series can fulfill requirements and expectations of younger generations of consumers, and which type of consumers can benefit most from it.
Strategic Positioning of the REDMI C Series
Xiaomi has always practiced a product pricing strategy based on different tiers according to their sensitivity towards pricing. In this segmentation, REDMI C series aims to provide basic smartphone usage capabilities with a controlled pricing mechanism, not targeting performance-centric mid-range smartphones.
Implemented, this approach means that the REDMI C series focuses on screen size, endurance, and usability rather than speed. The idea behind this product strategy by Xiaomi is not to cater to power users but to provide a stable smartphone experience to consumers who appreciate simplicity. Such a strategy has remained consistent in recent REDMI variants, such as the REDMI 13C and REDMI 14C.
Target Users and Daily Use Cases
The main market audience for the REDMI C series products is people whose need for a smartphone centers on communication, media consumption, and basic apps. Such phones are ideal for first smartphone buyers, senior people who want larger screens, and people in need of a reliable secondary phone.
Screen sizes over 6.7 inches are an advantage when it comes to viewing, and batteries with a capacity of 5,000 mAh will allow them to last a whole day. For such people, stability will matter far more in a device than gaming performance or fast storage.
In contrast, for younger consumers, the picture is a little different. Students and younger consumers will probably buy the REDMI C series because of financial necessity rather than preference. Although these devices will be sufficient for communication, browsing, and social network usage, standards relating to multitasking, gaming, and content creation will be higher.
Hardware Architecture and Performance Viewpoint
In terms of technology, the latest offerings in the REDMI C series come with MediaTek Helio processors such as Helio G85 or Helio G81 Ultra. These processors have a 12nm technology platform, which is optimized for cost savings rather than performance.
However, in terms of practical usage, this hardware configuration is sufficient for apps such as messaging, streaming, and basic social media usage. Where multiple apps are used simultaneously or where heavy games are launched, performance constraints become more evident. Moreover, this does not point towards any design inadequacy but rather a calculated trade-off with a focus on pricing.
Storage technology Another key factor to highlight is storage technology. The REDMI C series is equipped with storage technology called eMMC 5.1, which is slower when compared to the storage technology in the REDMI Note series, which is UFS storage technology. Therefore, application launch times and multitasking may not be very seamless.
Display, Multimedia, and Gaming Experience
The REDMI C series phones normally come with IPS screens featuring an HD+ display. Although these screens are quite large and conducive for reading and playing videos, they lack the sharpness and contrast typical of Full HD+ OLED screens found in higher-end segments.
As far as online streaming is concerned, everything remains in order, especially if one considers a service such as YouTube or Netflix. Gaming performance is adequate for casual games, but serious gaming would need lower graphic qualities in order to keep a stable framerate. As far as children are concerned, they may notice these deficiencies since they see gaming and social network support as an integral part of using a smartphone.
Pricing Context and Value Assessment
In the market, pricing dynamics are important in estimating the cost of REDMI C series devices. Depending on their model and vendors, a REDMI 14C device will cost approximately 150 to 170 USD when considered in local currency. Based on this pricing category, sometimes with promotional elements, devices from the REDMI Note series become affordable.
Naturally, this closeness in price encourages comparisons. Although the REDMI C series continues to offer competitive pricing in this segment, consumers with flexible pricing in mind will benefit more in moving up to a REDMI Note series model, especially when considering display and storage performance.
Software Support and Longevity
REDMI C devices come with Xiaomi Hyper OS pre-installed, which will allow consumers to benefit from being part of the entire Xiaomi ecosystem. Additionally, consumers can update their system apps using Hyper OS Updates.com or through Meme OS Enhancer from Google Play Services, which will provide consumers with access to additional functionalities such as system application updates and access to hidden functions among other benefits.
Although assistance via software is a positive factor in terms of longevity, a related need with respect to usage over time will remain linked with hardware capabilities. “Entry-level hardware may not be as fluid with future system updates, despite official support being offered,” a referenced article stated.
Final Evaluation: Is the REDMI C Series Suitable for Young Users?
The REDMI C series serves this purpose as an inexpensive and dependable line of smartphones. The series is most suitable for people with a focus on basic communication functions, large display screens, and durable batteries with a controlled price tag. For gamers and social media enthusiasts, if they have an interest in content creation, a better option in a different price segment would be to look at an alternative available in the REDMI Note series. Hence, in this case, a balance can be achieved based on an alternative offering available in a different price segment.
The company is said to be polishing a new high-end notebook, another fresh move in the premium PC strategy for the brand. According to information provided by famous Chinese blogger Digital Chat Station, the device is already in an advanced stage of polishing, with the tentative release window set for the first half of next year. Discussions among industry observers strongly suggest this model will fall under Xiaomi and not REDMI, further cementing its positioning as a flagship within the company’s broader ecosystem, which also includes products such as the Xiaomi Pad lineup and premium Xiaomi laptops.
Xiaomi’s Return to the Premium Laptop Segment
Historically, Xiaomi’s portfolio of laptops balances performance and value, whereas REDMI focuses on mass-market and cost-effective notebooks. This upcoming model seems to form a deliberate shift back toward the high-end segment under the Xiaomi brand. Early commentary has suggested that pricing will reflect the premium positioning of this particular device, especially as prices of memory and components continue to rise, which is affecting the global PC industry.
The strategic move aligns with Xiaomi’s long-term hardware roadmap, where premium devices are designed to fit tight in with HyperOS and Xiaomi HyperConnect for a seamless cross-device experience across phones, tablets, and smart accessories.
What We Know About Development Progress
While official specs are still not available, from his responses, it would appear that the laptop is well beyond the concept stage and is already in refinement. This would typically include nailing down industrial design, internal layout, and performance tuning. Such a stage would typically precede mass production planning as well, in support of reports of its manufacturing possibly starting in early 2026.
Other product categories were also discussed during community discussions, which include foldable-screen devices. The same source noted that the projects for foldable display are likewise in development and would arrive later, meaning Xiaomi is putting more focus on the premium laptop first.
Context From Xiaomi Executives
This report is in line with what was said earlier by the chiefs of Xiaomi. At the end of 2024, Wang Hua, General Manager of the Xiaomi Group Public Relations Department, when answering questions concerning Xiaomi-branded notebooks, stated that once REDMI had finally settled down in the notebook market, the company would revisit Xiaomi laptops. As things stand, conditions are now ripe for Xiaomi to attempt re-entry into the premium space, considering how REDMI now has a mature lineup.
Market Positioning and Expectations
A high-end Xiaomi laptop positioning, rather than a budget model
Likely to feature top-shelf materials and flagship-level performance
This is expected to integrate deeply with HyperOS and Xiaomi’s ecosystem. With Xiaomi continuing to branch out beyond just smartphones, this laptop could potentially become a central plank in its premium hardware strategy-particularly for those looking to move seamlessly across devices from Xiaomi.
Blogger @DigitalChatStation reported via Weibo that a future smartphone from a major manufacturer is readying a major battery bump, going up to 10,000mAh while maintaining less than 8.5mm of thickness for the device. Industry observers believe this device is widely believed to be the REDMI K90 Ultra, Xiaomi’s next-generation performance-focused flagship for the Chinese market. Already, the leak has garnered significant interest because it combines very high battery capacity with fast charging and an industrial design that remains slim, making it a notable step up for the REDMI K Ultra series.
Battery Technology and Charging Strategy
According to the leak, the REDMI K90 Ultra will boast a 10,000mAh battery with 100W wired fast charging and full-power wireless charging. Being able to achieve this capacity in a chassis thinner than 8.5mm suggests that Xiaomi uses a new high-density battery solution combined with advanced internal stacking and thermal management.
DigitalChatStation added in the comments that Xiaomi is rather focusing on daily usability and hand feel over further increasing the thickness of the smartphones. This, in turn, aligns with Xiaomi’s recent design philosophy: finding a balance between endurance, ergonomics, and charging efficiency rather than going forward with raw battery size.
Expected performance and hardware positioning
Besides the battery, the REDMI K90 Ultra will still be a real flagship-level performance device. When he was asked whether this phone will adopt a mid-range Snapdragon or Dimensity chip, the blogger hinted strongly at top of the range chipsets, with no mid-range options, in line with the positioning of previous REDMI K Ultra series.
Based on previous leaks, it could pack:
MediaTek Dimensity 9-series
Large flat LTPS display around 6.8 inches
1.5K resolution with up to 165Hz refresh rate
Metal frame construction
Ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor
Comprehensive water and dust resistance
These specifications would suggest that Xiaomi is firm about keeping the K90 Ultra to the flagships in terms of performance, rather than a reshuffling of those specifications into some kind of battery-centric compromise device.
Position of REDMI K90 series.
Ultra, on its part, within the REDMI K90 series, is believed to sit just below the Pro Max variant, yet still with very competitive specifications. Information till date indicates that the REDMI K90 Pro Max carries the Snapdragon 8 Elite platform, a dedicated graphics chip, and a high-end OLED display with advanced pixel architecture.
The REDMI K90 Ultra will be sold exclusively in China, like all its predecessors. It is expected to have a global outing later under the branding of Xiaomi T series, which continues with Xiaomi’s market strategy.
Strategic implications for Xiaomi
If these details are confirmed, the REDMI K90 Ultra would represent a major milestone in battery engineering for slim flagship smartphones. Putting together such a large 10,000mAh battery with fast wired and wireless charging in a thin body really shows continued investment by Xiaomi in the fields of material science, power management, and long-term usability.
Such a device would better reinforce Xiaomi’s position in the performance flagship group of customers who would not want to compromise on battery longevity with premium design standards.
Some Xiaomi phones do not include the built-in screenshot frame feature found on newer HyperOS versions. This can be inconvenient for users who want clean, professional-looking screenshots with device frames for sharing or publishing. Fortunately, this limitation is not tied to hardware. With the right third-party solution, the same visual result can be achieved easily. By using a lightweight customization app, Xiaomi users can manually recreate screenshot frames while maintaining full control over resolution and alignment. This approach works consistently across different Xiaomi, REDMI, and POCO models and integrates well with existing HyperOS workflows.
Using Snapmod to add screenshot frames on Xiaomi phones
Snapmod is a customization-focused application that allows users to manually define screen frames for screenshots. It does not modify system files and works independently from Xiaomi HyperOS features, making it suitable for devices where the native screenshot frame option is missing.
After installing Snapmod, users can configure a custom device profile that precisely matches their phone’s display dimensions. This ensures that the final framed screenshot looks natural and consistent with official Xiaomi promotional images.
Step-by-step configuration process
To begin, open the Snapmod application and access the main menu by tapping the three-line icon located at the bottom left of the screen. From there, select Device Customization and tap the plus icon in the bottom-right corner to create a new profile.
You will then need to enter several display-related values. The Screen Width and Screen Height should match your phone’s native screen resolution. The X Coordinate defines the vertical pixel distance between the screen content and the phone frame, while the Y Coordinate controls the horizontal spacing.
Next, set the Screenshot Width and Screenshot Height, which represent the exact pixel dimensions of the visible screen area inside the frame. Accuracy here is important for realistic results. Finally, upload a PNG image of your phone frame where the display area is transparent. This PNG acts as the visual shell around your screenshot.
Why this method works well on HyperOS devices
This manual approach offers flexibility that even built-in features may not provide. It allows Xiaomi users to maintain consistent visuals across different devices, including older models and POCO-branded global variants. Because Snapmod operates independently, it remains compatible with HyperOS updates and does not interfere with system stability.
For users who regularly share screenshots on social media, forums, or articles, this method provides a reliable workaround without waiting for official feature support. It also aligns well with Xiaomi’s design language when properly configured.
Xiaomi has detailed a seasonal camera feature for HyperOS 3, with a new Christmas-themed watermark designed to enhance photo personalization. Speaking to XiaomiTime, Xiaomi’s camera product management team has revealed the feature will kickoff a gray-scale rollout this week, beginning in China. The update focuses on flexibility with subtle design rather than visual exaggeration, fitting with the general direction of Xiaomi’s recent camera software.
Overview of HyperOS 3 Christmas Watermark
The Christmas watermark is fully baked into the HyperOS 3 camera framework and, crucially, is designed as a lightweight optional overlay. Xiaomi has confirmed the rollout will go live on devices running HyperOS 3 in China only. Consistency with existing camera watermarks is prioritized to ensure that the new feature does not compromise image quality, or that of metadata handling or post-processing performance.
From a software perspective, the camera application natively renders the watermark-so no compression artifacts are introduced, and the original image resolution is preserved. A user can apply the watermark either at the time of capture or at any later point in time using the system album editor to ensure flexibility during everyday use.
Options of Customization and Structural Layout Design
According to Xiaomi, the Christmas watermark includes three different layouts and nine visual styles. Before explaining them in detail, one should mention that the design language follows Xiaomi’s minimalistic aesthetic, keeping readability and balanced spacing at the center stage.
The customizable features include:
Three layout structures that are optimized for different photo orientations
Nine style variations combining icons, typography, and festive elements
Free color matching for different scenes’ adaptation of watermarks
Provide both camera application insertion support and album-based editing.
These options enable users to enhance images without having to revert to third-party photo editing tools, further reinforcing the idea that HyperOS 3 wants to be about native functionality.
Availability and Regional Restrictions
For now, it would seem that Xiaomi says the Christmas watermark feature is China-only. At the moment, there is no word on its global availability or expansion to international builds of HyperOS. As has often been the case with many features in HyperOS’ cameras, decisions for regional rollouts often rely on various localization priorities and device certification timelines.
Knowing this, for users who want to update system apps for Xiaomi, here’s the bonus: camera-related updates can also be tracked on HyperOSUpdates.comor through the MemeOS Enhancer app on Google Play that gives access to system app updates, among other additions for Xiaomi.
Software lifespan is now a consideration equal in priority to hardware in the global smartphone market. Among these devices, a major transition will take place in 2026 when many devices adopted with outdated update cycles will come to the end of their official support lifetime. With information culled from the Android Enterprise Recommended device list, an announcement from Xiaomi Security Center, and past update commitments, this piece will detail which devices under the umbrella of Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO will attain their End-of-Life status in 2026.
Update Policy Change in Xiaomi and Why 2026 Matters
Software support in Xiaomi phones has greatly improved over time. Current model series, such as the Xiaomi 15T series and Xiaomi 17 series smartphones, support at least five to six years of updates. However, this update does not apply to old devices. Devices launched in 2022 and 2023 were launched in a time when the brand transitioned to this support mode of two to three major Android updates and four years of security updates.
EOL analysis is most dependent upon the end of security updates rather than the specific Android versions. Past a point where updates cease, there can be a higher risk of incompatibility with financial and business apps. Thus, the important milestone in this case is indeed 2026, which marks a separation in time from before and after the new support cycle of Xiaomi.
Xiaomi-Labeled Phones Reaching EOL in 2026
Several flagship and upper-mid-range smartphones launched by Xiaomi are forecast to stop getting official security updates in 2026. Although these devices have capable hardware, their product cycle will end in accordance with the traditional model of updates.
Xiaomi 12 / Xiaomi 12 Pro
With Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 launched globally in early 2022, these devices are expected to get security updates until the first quarter of 2026. They will conclude their OS life cycle with Android 15 and HyperOS 3.
Xiaomi 12X and Xiaomi 12 Lite
As more accessible versions, both products are expected to achieve security EOL in approximately March of 2026.
Xiaomi 12T / Xiaomi 12T Pro
The 12T series was launched in late 2022 and enjoys a slightly prolonged term of support. They can be expected to have support until approximately October 2026, making them two of the last devices under the company name of ‘Xiaomi’ launched in 2022 to have support end. 12T will EOL with HyperOS 2 Android 15. 12T Pro will EOL with HyperOS 3 Android 15.
Redmi Devices and Their Influence in the Mass Market
Redmi series devices, especially Redmi Note devices, represent a considerable volume of Xiaomi’s total global user base. Therefore, EOL considerations in such a segment influence a massive number of users.
Redmi Note 12 Pro+ 5G & Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G
They include these popular mid-range devices, which come with a security update end-of-life in around October 2026. EOL with HyperOS 2 Android 15.
Redmi Note 12 5G and Redmi Note 12 4G
The 5G variant is expected to stop getting security updates in or around March 2026, and the 4G variant is expected to follow in April 2026. EOL with HyperOS 2 Android 15.
Typically, entry-level Redmi series devices come with shorter support lifecycles, where most devices launched before 2023 have already attained EOL status before or in early 2026.
POCO Phones: Performance Hardware, Short Software Life
POCO phones have enjoyed excellent performance for their price, but with shorter update support in mind, some important devices will attain EOL in 2026.
POCO F5 5G
POCO F5, which is powered by Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 and launched in mid-2023, is expected to support security updates until May 2026. EOL with HyperOS 2 Android 15.
POCO X5 Pro 5G and POCO X5 5G
Both of these versions, launched in early 2023, are expected to reach the end of support in security in the first quarter of 2026. EOL with HyperOS 2 Android 15.
Devices such as POCO F4, which are old models, will already be EOL by the time 2026 arrives and thus will not be considered newly ended support in this time span.
What EOL Means for Users and the Market
The end-of-life of security updates will not make a device immediately unusable but will bring in new risks in the long run. Financial apps can have limited functionality, and companies can deny access using device management policies. Economically, second-hand prices can drop significantly after EOL. Heavy users of system apps from Xiaomi need to know that most of these apps can actually be updated using HyperOSUpdates.com or through the MemeOS Enhancer application available at Google Play, which gives access to other features and tools on the system. Even with all this, the systems will not have security updates.
Xiaomi has officially started rolling out new updates for HyperOS with the December 2025 Android security patch, centered around system stability and user protection. Rollout targeting selected Redmi models in some regions brings a number of important fixes for several security vulnerabilities. These updates are part of Xiaomi’s continued software maintenance efforts under HyperOS to ensure devices remain protected against emerging threats while continuing performance consistently across various versions of Android.
Devices Receiving the December 2025 HyperOS Update
This first phase of the December 2025 security update rollout covers two Redmi smartphone models each, per region and Android version. Xiaomi is continuing its usual staged deployment approach to ensure the quality of the updates and minimize issues that may arise.
Redmi Note 12 Pro / Redmi Note 12 Pro+
Region: Russia
Firmware version: OS2.0.9.0.UMORUXM
Android Version: Android 14
Redmi 12
Region: EEA (Europe)
Version: OS2.0.206.0.VMXEUXM
Android Version: Android 15
These updates confirm that Xiaomi continues to support both Android 14 and Android 15 variants in parallel for its respective devices running under the HyperOS ecosystem.
What’s New in the December 2025 Security Patch
Besides the other updates, Xiaomi has laid strong emphasis on system security and malware protection with the December 2025 security patch. The update fixes a wide range of vulnerabilities identified at the Android framework and system level. Many of these fixes are rated critical, especially malicious apps capable of locking your device or attempting to access files in a prohibited manner.
In the last few months, some new malware related to Android has been targeting lock screens and input methods. Xiaomi’s December patch directly addresses these risks by strengthening system permissions and improving background process control at the HyperOS level. This helps ensure user data integrity without affecting daily device performance.
Update Availability and System App Security
The rollout is gradual and may therefore take some time to reach all eligible users. When available, update manually using the standard system updater under HyperOS. Xiaomi also recommends keeping system apps up to date, since security fixes often depend on updated core apps.
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