Xiaomi’s recent HyperOS launcher update has raised questions among users who noticed that traditional grid options such as 4×7 and 5×6 are no longer available. This adjustment, introduced through the latest System Launcher distribution, reflects Xiaomi’s strategy to unify the visual identity of HyperOS across smartphones, tablets, and automotive interfaces. The change also aligns with updated widget engines and layout rules introduced in HyperOS and documented in earlier analyses we published on HyperOSUpdates. These modifications indicate a broader transition from granular customization toward a more structured, ecosystem-optimized design language.

The Design Shift Behind HyperOS Grid Restrictions

Xiaomi’s transition from MIUI to HyperOS introduced the “Alive Design” framework, which emphasizes consistent spacing, animation sequences, and widget compatibility across all device classes. This shift requires predictable screen coordinates, making highly flexible grid configurations difficult to maintain. The company therefore standardized the launcher into two main profiles:

• Standard (4×6)
• Dense (5×9)

This design intentionally reduces layout fragmentation, ensuring that widgets, large folders, and features such as Super Island do not visually conflict with system animations or safe-zone boundaries on different screen types.

Why the 4×7 Layout No Longer Fits HyperOS Standards

The 4×7 configuration was widely preferred for ergonomic balance, particularly on large displays. However, its removal corresponds to the technical direction of HyperOS. A 7-row grid complicates widget mathematics, particularly for components such as 2×2 and 4×2 interactive folders. These components rely on evenly divisible grid structures; Xiaomi found that 6 or 9 rows provide far more stable alignment for scalable elements. Additionally, the Super Island’s dynamic motion requires fixed spacing at the top portion of the display, which becomes more predictable with standardized grid models.

Technical Drivers Behind the New Grid Profiles

HyperOS relies on new spacing algorithms to ensure fluid performance across both flagship and budget devices.
Budget-oriented models—especially Redmi and POCO series—often have GPU-level restrictions defined by internal performance parameters. To ensure consistent 90Hz or 120Hz animation quality, the system disables complex density modes, including legacy grid formats. These restrictions prevent frame drops when Gaussian blur effects, folder scaling, and Super Island animations are active simultaneously.

What About POCO Launcher Users?

POCO Launcher uses a codebase separate from the primary Xiaomi System Launcher. As a result, even after receiving HyperOS, POCO devices may not feature the same grid logic or animation engine. The recents provider is also integrated directly into the stock launcher, which limits full gesture support on third-party launchers. This situation forces POCO users to stay within the default environment, making the reduced grid selection more noticeable than on standard Xiaomi devices.

Xiaomi’s removal of the 4×7 layout is not a regression but a deliberate architectural decision tied to the broader HyperOS vision of unified design across mobile, home, and automotive systems. By narrowing the grid offerings, Xiaomi preserves predictable widget alignment, strengthens system animations, and ensures performance stability across diverse hardware tiers. Although some users may prefer legacy flexibility, the shift ultimately supports the long-term evolution of the HyperOS ecosystem.

The worldwide release of Apple’s iOS 18 has changed user expectations when it comes to interface personalization. But for the Android world, this presents a particular set of challenges. While Xiaomi HyperOS remains in development as a singular operating system, the recent release of HyperOS 3 has left some power users pondering exactly why there is a lack of granular aesthetic controls. Users updating devices such as the Redmi Note 15 Pro or the new Xiaomi 17 are finding features such as native icon tinting and modular Control Centers to be conspicuous by their absence, compared to other offerings.

The Strategic Architecture of HyperOS 3

The philosophy behind the development of HyperOS 3 differs a lot from traditional smartphone skins, as this operating system is targeted for the middleware layer to support the “Human x Car x Home” ecosystem, rather than being a standalone mobile interface. Such an integration strategy severely limits the flexibility of User Interface. For seamless connectivity with Xiaomi SU7 EV and smart home products, the system takes stability and uniformity as priorities over the open sandbox approach in versions of Android.

The latest builds, such as OS3.0.4.0.WOOMIXM, indicate a focus on backend kernel optimization rather than frontend customization tools. The “stabilization lag” in this area is one of calculated engineering decisions: with these specific UI elements locked, Xiaomi ensures that the Xiaomi HyperConnect framework works reliably across tablets like the Xiaomi Pad 8 and wearable devices like the Xiaomi Band 10, without user modifications breaking the layout consistency required by cross-device communication.

Technical Limitations in Customizing Icons

One sticking point is the comparative lack of native dark icon customization. iOS 18 on-device intelligence analyzes app icons, creating dark variants in real-time. Meanwhile, HyperOS 3.0 has a “white background” technical issue with legacy Android applications.

• The Masking Problem: The system applies a uniform “squircle” mask to all icons. Without advanced AI processing to remove white backgrounds of third-party apps, forcing Dark Mode often results in visual inconsistencies.
• The Super Icon Engine: Xiaomi’s proprietary “Super Icons” use a custom rendering engine that supports swiping gestures. Building in a global tinting feature would involve refactoring this entire framework to provide support for dynamic color overlays, which will likely be included in a future update, like HyperOS 4.0.

Economic Factors and Internet Services

There is also a clear economic motivation for these design decisions beyond mere technical limitations. Xiaomi uses a business model with very thin margins on hardware, requiring much stronger revenue streams from Internet Services. The Theme Store remains vital to this financial arrangement.

Were Xiaomi HyperOS to include a completely native, free “Icon Studio” that’s on par with iOS 26, it would immediately cannibalize any third-party icon pack and theme markets. The current ecosystem relies on a “freemium” incentive structure wherein users are encouraged to visit the Theme Store in order to fix visual inconsistencies in the stock OS. It protects the revenue brought in by the theme designers and maintains high DAU metrics for Xiaomi’s digital marketplace.

Community Solutions and System Enhancements

But while the native system would need to wait for future updates, the community filled the gap with high-quality themes, often labeled as “iOS 26” or “Dark Mode Pro.” These themes utilize static assets to provide the uniform aesthetic the OS is currently lacking.

Future Roadmap: HyperOS 4 and Beyond

Currently, industry analysis indicates that these missing features of customization are being strategically reserved for future hardware cycles. As Android 17 promises to bring deeper AI integration for UI assets, Xiaomi is also likely to be working on some sort of “HyperAI” solution to generate icons. This would explain how the company will position and market this feature as a technological breakthrough for future flagships, such as the Xiaomi 17 series. Until then, the rigidity of the Control Center has a functional rationale: it ensures IoT controls remain front-and-center, bolstering engagement with the broader smart home ecosystem. This approach may limit personalization, but it anchors the operating system in its role as a central command hub within the connected lifestyle.

Some owners, including those of the Redmi Note 14 4G, have noticed that their phones reflect a first-activation date many weeks or even months before they had purchased the device. The situation has caused concern on platforms like Reddit, with buyers fearing they may have received a refurbished unit without their knowledge. However, according to system behavior and how logistics is done internally, this is normally harmless and does not point to prior use. As we explain below, the real indicator of a new device is hidden in the battery statistics and internal checks. For more information on devices, you can check out related content on HyperOSUpdates.com or guides about Xiaomi products.

Why Some Xiaomi Phones Show “Early Activation” Dates

The situation usually starts from the supply chain. Sellers, particularly those that handle imported or online-ordered units, usually do brief verification tests before shipping. Such checks include mere powering on of the device, making sure the screen is working, the firmware is loading correctly, and its serial number is verified. With such quick verification done, the system logs a “first use” timestamp, even if the phone was never really used by a consumer.

These tests do not degrade or alter the device, nor do they even change its status as a brand-new product. They only create an inaccurate impression for the buyer when reading system dates.

The Real Indicator: Battery Charge Cycles

The only surefire indicator about whether a Xiaomi device is actually new is the battery charge cycle counter. All phones from Xiaomi running Xiaomi HyperOS keep internal logs of cycles, which cannot be reset by sellers or standard system tools.

If your device shows:

• 0 charge cycles
• 100% battery health
• No traces of wear from inside or outside.

then the hardware has never experienced real consumer use. A phone used even for a few days would reveal at least 1–3 charge cycles and noticeable changes in battery health. Therefore, a discrepancy in the activation date and purchase date is usually not evidence of refurbishment.

What Sellers Actually Do During Pre-Shipment Checks

Many logistics workflows follow the same general path, including:

• Packaging inspection EN Serial number verification
• Brief power-on test to ensure the device boots
• Re-sealing of the box

These kinds of operations ensure that the device is delivered to a buyer in operational condition without defects. The system logs the first boot, but it cannot be considered real usage because no charging, configuration, or extended operation takes place.

This practice is common across manufacturers and does not affect warranty conditions or device performance.

How to Confirm Your Xiaomi Device Is Truly New

To confirm your phone’s authenticity and condition, please check the following:

• Battery Cycles: 0 cycles means untouched hardware.
• Battery health: Should be approximately 100%.
• Box Condition: Factory-sealed unless pre-shipment checks were performed.
• IMEI status: Origin can be checked with Xiaomi’s official IMEI verification tools.

If these conditions are met, the device is regarded as new, regardless of the system activation timestamp.

Should You Worry About This Issue?

No, the activation date is only a system marker and was created for logistic verification. It does not represent the actual use or renovation of the device. Provided battery statistics confirm zero cycles, the device is brand new. Knowledge of this behavior can help in avoiding unnecessary doubts and keep confidence at the time of purchase of a Xiaomi product.

After years away, Xiaomi has returned to French retail with the grand opening of its first directly operated Xiaomi Home store in Paris. An important executive at the helm of the Xiaomi Group, Lu Weibing, officially announced the development. The new store builds on Xiaomi’s earlier presence in the country and strengthens its European retail strategy, which is already supported by products like the Xiaomi 15, Redmi Note series, and an extensive portfolio of smart home devices available through partners like FNAC and Carrefour.

Xiaomi Returns to the French Market

Located in Créteil Soleil, this new directly operated store represents the brand’s return to France. An authorized store on the Champs-Élysées had been previously opened by the company; however, that store was operated by a third-party customer and thus was temporarily closed during the pandemic. This new store, however, is fully operated by Xiaomi, meaning that Xiaomi is committed to the French market in a stronger way for the long run.

This renewed physical appearance from Xiaomi aims at providing a far more integrated experience for French consumers across offerings from smartphones and tablets to wearables and smart home products. The brand will expand its visibility through direct retail, complementing its existing presence in online and offline partner channels.

Journey Since 2018

Xiaomi entered France officially in May 2018 with the opening of an authorized store on Boulevard Sébastopol in Paris. At that launch, it had introduced the Xiaomi MIX 2S, Redmi Note 5, and a range of ecosystem products including the Xiaomi Electric Scooter. Xiaomi also partnered with major retail chains like FNAC, DARTY, and Carrefour, which ensures wide distribution of its products across the country.

This new official Xiaomi Home store reflects the brand’s strategic intention of enhancing customer engagement, providing hands-on product experiences, and extending after-sales support in a more direct and standardized way.

What French Consumers Can Expect

Xiaomi Homes are designed to house a whole product ecosystem, which includes:

• Latest Xiaomi smartphones
• Xiaomi Pad tablets AIoT products for smart homes Wearables including but not limited to Xiaomi Band and Xiaomi Watch models
• Lifestyle and mobility products

The store in Paris will also support device consultation, hands-on trials, and product guidance, allowing users to better understand Xiaomi’s ever-expanding ecosystem.

Strengthening Global Expansion

This new opening further aligns with the broader global retail roadmap of Xiaomi, following the company’s keen emphasis on strengthening its presence in Europe. With the new store, Xiaomi demonstrates its confidence in the French market and further increases accessibility for its extensive product lineup.

Source

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra has entered one of its most significant global discount periods as retailers prepare for the arrival of the next-generation Xiaomi 17 Ultra. During the Black Friday 2025 season, the flagship saw substantial price cuts across Europe and China, with the former’s inventory optimization and the latter’s accelerated product cycles driving Xiaomi’s respective pricing strategies. This article examines where the Xiaomi 15 Ultra sees the most discounts, how varying regional markets affect its pricing, and what buyers should look toward prior to the official unveiling of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. Additional insights into Xiaomi flagships can also be found in our Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro coverage on XiaomiTime.com.

Global Pricing Strategy and Market Transition

At the same time, Xiaomi’s transition from the 15 Ultra to the upcoming 17 Ultra marks one of the fastest generational shifts in the company’s flagship roadmap. Before taking a closer look at country-specific discounts, it’s important to understand what strategic conditions may be responsible for these price drops. The company has pushed forward its release schedule and is expected to announce the Xiaomi 17 Ultra in China before the end of December 2025, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 platform and the latest HyperOS 3. Such an accelerated cycle naturally encourages retailers to clear Xiaomi 15 Ultra inventory ahead of the new model’s introduction.

Why the Price Is Falling

The flagship is consequently subjected to aggressive reductions, considering how early most retailers have started stock liquidation efforts. Retailers expect a very quick migration by consumers to the Xiaomi 17 Ultra when it launches with its higher-grade camera systems, AI performance, and design refinement. Also, the fact that there was no “Xiaomi 16” series, in a strategic move to get model numbering in line with Apple, makes this shift in expectations more pronounced before the next release.

Europe: The Largest Discounts in the World

Europe is the leading region with the strongest discounts for Xiaomi 15 Ultra, supported by competitive market conditions, seasonal retail campaigns, and requirements from distributors to clear their existing inventory.

Germany

For example, the German retailers MediaMarkt and Saturn offered significant Black Friday discounts. The recommended retail price for the Xiaomi 15 Ultra was about €1,499, reduced by an impressive 17% to about €1,239≈ USD 1,340. Flexible monthly financing boosts the competitiveness of the device in an inflation-strained market.

United Kingdom

The UK currently hosts some of the steepest price cuts, with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra falling from its £1,300 MSRP to nearly £860 ≈ USD 1,080 on Amazon UK. At this price level, the device becomes nearly £440 cheaper than Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra, giving customers a strong flagship alternative at significantly lower costs.

Southern Europe

Platforms like those in Italy and Spain show periodic reductions, with pricing often below €1,100 ≈ USD 1,190. Retail variation is common, and prices tend to soften even further as the launch of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra draws closer.

Türkiye: High Taxes Limit Visible Discounts

Turkey continues to be one of the most challenging smartphone markets because of the strong taxation policies and currency volatility. Xiaomi 15 Ultra price cuts are relatively modest despite participating in “Efsane Kasım” sales.

A 16GB/512GB unit guaranteed by Xiaomi Türkiye varies from 74,899 TL to 90,000 TL (≈ USD 2,250–2,700), which surely reflects the impact of ÖTV, KDV, and other taxes. While a price of 74,899 TL is competitive within the local environment, this is still much more expensive than European pricing due to structural cost differences.

Buyers must ensure listings strictly mention “Xiaomi Türkiye Garantili” because devices with import warranty do not have any official support for servicing and have lower resale value generally.

India: Stable Pricing Through Festival Offers

The pricing of India’s Xiaomi 15 Ultra has not seen significant direct cuts. Discounts are instead offered by way of cashback schemes and exchange bonus during events over the Great Indian Festival and Big Billion Days.

The device usually sticks to the price of 109,999 INR ≈ USD 1,320, with minimal deviations. Controlled inventory along with limited volume in the Ultra category helps retain the pricing consistent through the season.

China and Cross-Border Platforms

As the market most proximate to the launch of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, China shows sharp declines, especially through online retailers. Global-version listings on major platforms like AliExpress range from USD 1,184 to USD 1,400, depending on region and storage configuration. However, for countries with strict IMEI registration policies, such as Türkiye, cross-border purchases may result in substantial additional fees.

Should You Wait for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra? The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is bound to bring in much-needed updates, including:

• Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 platform
• New 200MP periscope zoom system
• Updated 1-inch primary sensor
• Increased battery efficiency through advanced fabrication processes

With a likely China debut between 22–28 December 2025, and worldwide sales around MWC 2026, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra may be a good value for power users who want cutting-edge AI features and advances in next-generation cameras. However, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is still one of the most powerful premium imaging smartphones out there, at prices that have recently reached historic lows in multiple markets.

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra currently sees the most aggressive discounting in Germany, the UK, and Southern Europe, followed by China via global e-commerce channels. While Turkey and India show less pronounced reductions due to local economic factors, the device still participates in seasonal promotions. These price drops are directly related to the impending launch of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and represent a great opportunity for consumers looking to get a premium flagship at a much lower price.

Some good news for Xiaomi fans! The all-new Depth Effect with HyperOS 3 for Xiaomi makes your lock screen wallpapers look dynamic and give them a 3D-like touch. A very popular feature in iOS has arrived in a Xiaomi, enabling a much more immersive and visually appealing experience. And today, to celebrate this, we present a collection of 58 wallpapers optimized for this feature, published exclusively on our Xiaomi fan website.

How to apply the wallpapers with depth effect to Xiaomi HyperOS 3

Activating depth effect on your Xiaomi device is quite simple. Here’s how you can customize your lock screen:

• Enter the Lock Screen Customizer: Long press on an empty area of your lock screen to launch the customization of the lock screen.
• Wallpaper: Select your picture from the gallery or download it from ours. The Depth Effect will automatically apply and give your lock screen an enthralling depth effect.

Why Depth Effect Wallpapers?

These depth effect wallpapers make the elements of the wallpaper float or show depth against the background. Not that it doesn’t already enhance the beauty of your device; it just makes everything look very fresh and modern every time you unlock your phone.

Exclusive Collection: 58 Depth Effect Wallpapers

To take full advantage of the feature, however, we’ve put together a special collection 58 free wallpapers supporting Depth Effect. Each of these is carefully selected to ensure it provides the best of visual experience when paired with Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3—ranging from a cool Pokémon theme to something as stunning as a forest theme.

Here are five previews to selected wallpapers from our Uwalls Telegram Channel. Dive into the full archive of 58 wallpapers and get the scoop on the Depth Effect for an impeccable visual experience on your Xiaomi device. To pick and download all wallpapers go to our Uwalls Telegram Channel.

Keep up to date with the HyperOS for Xiaomi Don’t miss new updates regarding features: save our website and visit us often to find out new wallpapers and other hot content about Xiaomi HyperOS. With the possibility of modifying the look of the Lock Screen using Depth Effect wallpapers, personal moments are becoming unique and interesting things each time the device is used. Have a look at the collection today and make the Xiaomi devices look amazingly alive with the Depth Effect feature under HyperOS 1.0. Stay tuned to our Xiaomi fan website for more tips, tricks, and updates. Happy customizing!

The Tokyo Institute of Science has achieved a huge milestone by converting LED light energy into electricity for the first time, thus allowing the true implementation of wireless power delivery at distances of as far as 5 meters. This Optical Wireless Power Transmission breakthrough opens new possibilities in powering indoor IoT devices without batteries or cables and represents a potential revolution for future Xiaomi smart homes, including technologies seen in Xiaomi HyperConnect, Xiaomi Pad devices, and Xiaomi Smart Home products.

What Makes LED-Based Wireless Power a Breakthrough?

This new OWPT technology converts electrical energy into LED light, transmits it, and then reconverts it into electrical power using a photovoltaic receiver. High-power LEDs, unlike laser-based systems, can offer safer and more cost-efficient transmission. This makes them ideal for environments with dense IoT ecosystems, like smart homes, industrial sensors, and smart offices.

The system uses AI image recognition to power multiple devices simultaneously and automatically. This kind of intelligent identification may be incorporated into future Xiaomi product series to serve the purpose of stable wireless power transmission in different home settings.

Adaptive Optics for Stable 5 m Transmission

To circumvent the loss of energy over distances, the research team has developed a dual-mode adaptive optics system. In this system, it utilizes a focusable liquid lens and an imaging lens that automatically adjust beam size according to receiver distance and size. Consequently, this ensures efficiency both in bright and dark indoor environments.

The system ensures precise targeting through its depth camera, reflective film, and stepper-motor-controlled reflector. Due to the infrared reflection of the film, the receiver remains visible even in complete darkness. Preliminary tests demonstrate stable performance at 5 meters and a radiant flux as high as 1.53 W.

How Xiaomi Could Use This Technology

This technology is highly relevant, considering that Xiaomi’s ecosystem is one of the world’s largest IoT platforms. If adopted, here are several product categories in which Xiaomi could introduce wireless LED power delivery:

Possible Applications by Xiaomi

Xiaomi Smart Home Devices: Powering Xiaomi Smart Door Lock, Xiaomi Smart Camera, and Xiaomi Sensor modules without cables. Xiaomi IoT Hubs: Integrating OWPT into the Xiaomi HyperConnect to enable cross-room energy and data sharing flawlessly. Xiaomi Robotics: Next-generation CyberDog and household robots will be able to carry out LED-based continuous charging while operating. Xiaomi Automotive (SU7, future models): Interior sensors, ambient lighting modules and other small components may work without wiring.

Xiaomi Pad & AIoT Devices

Accessories like styluses, mini speakers, or smart desk lamps would get charged only by staying in proximity to an LED transmitter. It also aligns with the commitment of Xiaomi to create a fully wireless smart home environment, prevent battery waste, and develop more energy-efficient living spaces.

Why It Matters for the Future of Smart Homes

This technology’s unique combination of safety, low cost, and precise AI-based targeting could be a major component in developing the next generation of smart ecosystems. For companies like Xiaomi, which are invested deep in smart IoT networks, OWPT could mean homes where sensors, gadgets, and wearables would work without ever needing to be charged manually.

The update for Xiaomi Band 10 and Xiaomi AI Glasses has officially entered gray-scale testing in China, with a full rollout next week. According to Zhang Lei, Vice President of the Mobile Phone Department of Xiaomi Group, all versions of Band 10 support updating, including standard, NFC, ceramic, and Yaoying Gold. For system app updates, readers can manage them through our project HyperOSUpdates.com or via the MemeOS Enhancer app in Play Store, which is used to enable hidden features of Xiaomi and internal system updates within a unified interface.

Xiaomi Band 10 Receives Key System and Fitness Enhancements

The major adjustments in the Xiaomi Band 10 update include enhancing system consistency and refining sport-related algorithms. This version maintains more consistency with the visual style of Xiaomi HyperOS 3, so the interface is much smoother and more refined.

The swimming mode has been optimized, especially for sessions in the pool, allowing for better stroke recognition and more accurate distance recording. Xiaomi also introduced the Cadence & Pace Algorithm 2.0, promising the delivery of more precise running metrics. This makes it particularly useful for users who rely on daily fitness tracking within the Xiaomi ecosystem.

What’s New in Xiaomi Band 10

• Updated visual elements to match HyperOS 3
• Improved notification layout with better focus alerts
• Optimized swimming mode with increased pool-tracking accuracy
• Cadence & Pace Algorithm 2.0 – precisely analyzes your run

---

Xiaomi AI Glasses Gain New Smart Interaction Features

This update brings a whole set of practical and user-oriented features: English learning support has been extended—users just have to wake Xiao Ai and say “Open English speaking practice” to start interactive language exercises with the glasses as their personal wearable learning assistant.

The system has also added a new feature: “Xiao Ai Car Control with Glasses,” which allows users to remote control smart electric vehicles manufactured by Xiaomi through voice. They can check car status or perform some simple remote operations hands-free.

After the update, Xiaomi AI Glasses will add support for live streaming from TikTok and custom RTMP streaming, enabling creators to stream directly from the glasses. This is complemented by Xiao Ai OneShot that enables immediate command execution without waiting for a wake-up acknowledgment.

Key Additions to Xiaomi AI Glasses

• Interactive mode of English speaking practice
• Remote control via the built-in Xiao Ai
• Support for TikTok + RTMP live streaming
• Xiao Ai OneShot for instant command response

Rollout Timeline and Availability

Zhang Lei confirmed that both the Xiaomi Band 10 and Xiaomi AI Glasses currently undergo staged gray-scale testing across China. The full stable rollout is expected next week for all models. Since they are China-market products, features may vary internationally depending on regional certifications and connected services. For app-based updates and future Beta releases, users may access system tools through HyperOSUpdates.com or install MemeOS Enhancer.

The pre-sale of the Xiaomi Smart Door Lock M40 has officially kicked off in China at an introductory price of 3299 yuan (about $455 USD) but drops to 2804.15 yuan ($387 USD) after government subsidies. This model has been launched as a more budget-friendly version of the previously launched M40 Pro. It retains Smart Home compatibility with Xiaomi HyperConnect and advanced AI security features. Users may also explore related smart-home integrations through HyperOSUpdates.com or the MemeOS Enhancer app on Google Play for extended Xiaomi functionalities.

Key Differences Between M40 and M40 Pro

The architecture of the Xiaomi Smart Door Lock M40 is much similar to the M40 Pro, except that the palm-vein recognition system of the Pro has been removed to decrease the cost. Instead, the M40 has employed a slightly smaller 4.94-inch HD display compared to its Pro model with a 5-inch panel. Even after these changes, it still maintains the advanced AI dual-camera panoramic doorbell system consisting of a 175° 3MP lens and a 128° 2MP lens, ensuring wide-angle coverage to enhance home security.

Camera and Display Enhancements

This dual-camera setup works in harmony with Xiaomi’s image-processing algorithms to enhance recognition accuracy both during the day and in low-light conditions. The small display keeps a high degree of clarity for monitoring purposes and offers real-time visuals and alerts directly on the door panel.

Security, Night Vision, and Methods of Unlocking

The Smart Door Lock M40 incorporates a self-developed noise-reduction automatic lock body for smoother operation, while it is also equipped with a high-security C-level direct-insertion lock cylinder. It supports 12 unlocking methods, including AI 3D structured-light facial recognition, AI fingerprint unlocking, password input, NFC access, and mechanical key support to ensure multiple secure entry pathways for diverse users.

Enhanced Night Vision and Alert System

With six infrared fill lights and multiple night-vision modes, the system delivers clear nighttime monitoring. The AI algorithms in the chip distinguish between human activities to improve nighttime detection reliability at home entrances.

Smart Ecosystem Integration and Power Management

The new Xiaomi Smart Door Lock M40 features dual power modes: a lithium battery with up to 4.5 months of life and a dry-cell battery that lasts up to 6 months, depending on the usage. For emergencies, it includes an external Type-C charging port and even supports wireless reverse charging via compatible Xiaomi smartphones.

Integration with Xiaomi’s HyperConnect further allows for cross-screen interaction, such as receiving door alerts on Xiaomi smartphones, Xiaomi TVs, and even the Xiaomi SU7’s infotainment system. The lock also supports WeChat audio and video intercom and full management through the Mi Home App.

Smart Home Expansions

It can be installed or updated from HyperOSUpdates.com or via the MemeOS Enhancer app on Google Play, which also unlocks many hidden Xiaomi features and makes additional system utilities available.

Xiaomi continues to improve its software with day-to-day user interface stability enhancements. Recently, users encountered a certain display anomaly related to the Super Island and volume control panel during active use. These UI elements incorrectly maintain a vertical orientation when the device assumes a landscape orientation; this results in visual misalignment. Thankfully, Xiaomi has since officially acknowledged this behavior and has already prepared a solution. This new patch will ensure smooth visual transition regardless of screen orientation and will be added to the next HyperOS updates and system patches.

Super Island and Volume Panel Orientation Fix

The reported problem specifically impacts the “Super Island” dynamic notification area and the system volume slider. The UI, by design, adjusts strictly according to the device’s physical orientation through gyroscope data under normal operation. Due to a software logical error, the overlay elements ignored the switch to landscape mode, normally used during video playback and gaming. This resulted in notifications and sound controls displaying sideways, ruining the immersive experience.

Xiaomi’s software engineering team has successfully resolved this rendering error. It fixes the coordinate mapping for the Super Island and the volume bar, making sure that they rotate and are displayed correctly relative to the screen position. This adjustment restores the intended aesthetic and functional fluidity of the operating system.

The patch for the landscape orientation display error has been finalized and is scheduled for release in the immediate future.

The issue, where swiping down to open a small pop-up window in HyperOS Beta, sometimes resulted in unresponsive message notification cards, has been dealt with by Xiaomi. This problem had caused temporary freezes in some scenarios, especially when users were in the middle of gameplay. The fix will help improve system fluidity to further enhance user experience on Xiaomi devices.

What was the Notification Freeze issue?

In the latest HyperOS 3 update some users found a rare bug: when pulling down a message notification card to open a small floating window, the interface would get stuck. It only appeared most of the time when a free-form window was switched to while receiving a new message. The bug is not common but affects usability during dynamic scenarios, such as gaming.

Why It Happened

The freeze was related to the system’s free-form window rendering process. When a message was received during full-screen activity, transition logic between a notification card and a small pop-up window didn’t manage to finish properly and thus caused an interface lock. Fortunately, Xiaomi’s engineering team was able to isolate the cause in the Beta logs and quickly prepared a corrective patch.

Fixes and Improvements by Xiaomi

Xiaomi has now issued an update to fix this behavior. The patch improves how HyperOS handles layered UI transitions, making message cards smoothly expand into popup windows without interrupting foreground apps. It is an important refinement that makes multi-windowing more robust, especially for those who use floating windows to handle messages while in-game or consuming media.

Additional Optimizations

With this fix, Xiaomi also implemented:

• More consistent animation timing in free-form window transitions
• Improved stability when switching from full-screen apps
• Faster rendering of small pop-up windows during multitasking

These tweaks further reinforce Xiaomi’s commitment to responsiveness and reliability within the Beta program for HyperOS.

How Users Can Update

This fix is part of the latest HyperOS Beta rollout. Users already on the Beta channel will automatically receive the patch. Meanwhile, users of Xiaomi system apps can update or manage relevant services via HyperOSUpdates.com, or on the Play Store through the MemeOS Enhancer app, which also grants access to hidden Xiaomi features and system app upgrades.

This fixed notification card freeze issue shows how Xiaomi responds quickly to feedback from its users and continuously refines the HyperOS environment. Xiaomi not only ensures smoother transitions and prevents interface freezes in daily scenarios but also significantly enhances gaming performance across all Xiaomi products.

The global stable update to HyperOS 3 for the Xiaomi 14 is now well underway, having first rolled out to Mi Pilot testers, while a full public release is expected over the course of the next couple of days. This latest release, namely HyperOS 3.0.2.0.WNCMIXM based on Android 16, brings improved AI performance, refreshed system icons, and a more refined interface. Users who have been accustomed to features such as Super Island or even a revamp in the design of the control center via guides relating to HyperOS Updates and Xiaomi 14 will instantly feel smoother interactions in a more visually polished system.

What the HyperOS 3 Update Brings to Xiaomi 14

The global package of HyperOS 3 brings in a cleaner design approach: better textures, modernized animations, and refined transitions. With a close eye for visual clarity at Xiaomi, the interface feels more consistent across the different components of the system, especially in everyday navigation.

AI Enhancements Throughout the System

AI capabilities have been expanded within HyperOS 3, and the update reinforces on-device intelligence. These enhancements enable the Xiaomi 14 to react more effectively to various tasks, such as image optimization, voice interaction features, and contextual predictions. Operating these capabilities on-device brings speed with an assurance of privacy while enhancing the user experience.

Super Island: A More Dynamic Interaction Layer

The update enhances Super Island, which is a feature meant to make both system alerts and ongoing tasks more accessible. Improved animations, along with an adaptive layout, provide a feeling of quick interaction and visual smoothness. In this refined version, it integrates better with the display of the Xiaomi 14, creating an interface that’s premium and functional for multitasking.

Updated Icons and UI Aesthetics

HyperOS 3 introduces a series of newly designed icons to simplify the whole look and retain consistency in the HyperOS visual identity. These subtle but meaningful adjustments will go a long way in improving clarity across menus and applications and further enhance the day-to-day experience.

Details of Rollout and Availability

Xiaomi has confirmed that the update is currently available to Mi Pilot users, while a general rollout is expected within the next 24–48 hours. Similar to all major OTA updates, there is some slight regional variation in availability, but all global Xiaomi 14 units will see it shortly.

Those interested in manually updating their system apps can also update the latest Xiaomi apps with the help of our MemeOS Enhancer project on the Play Store. This utility unlocks some Xiaomi hidden features, allows updates for system apps, and enables direct access to HyperOS update panels.

Representing a milestone in the development of Xiaomi’s intelligent ecosystem and the broader AI research community, Xiaomi officially released and fully open-sourced its MiMo-Embodied large-scale embodied model. With increasing embodied intelligence at home and wider acceptance of autonomous driving, Xiaomi now intends to overcome a long-standing challenge: developing cognitive and capability interoperability between indoor robots and outdoor vehicles. Using MiMo-Embodied, Xiaomi introduces a unified foundation model that advances autonomous driving, embodied intelligence, and general AI capabilities into a single framework.

What Makes MiMo-Embodied a Breakthrough?

According to Xiaomi, MiMo-Embodied is the first in the industry in terms of an embodied foundation model to bridge the gaps between autonomous driving and embodied intelligence. This model unites task interpretation, perception, and decision-making in both home and mobility scenarios, establishing a sound scientific basis for future AI systems across domains. This move marks an extension of Xiaomi’s ambitions beyond consumer electronics into more advanced robotics and large-scale automation.

Key Technical Principles Behind the Model

MiMo-Embodied incorporates a deep architectural design to support multi-scenario cognition. The model focuses on the harmonization of embodied tasks, which include spatial reasoning and task planning, with driving tasks like perception and trajectory generation. This unified processing approach empowers Xiaomi to move from specialized vertical intelligence toward scalable, cross-domain intelligent collaboration.

Three Key Features of Technology

Broad Cross-Domain Capability Coverage

The model jointly supports three crucial tasks in the realm of embodied intelligence, affordance reasoning, task planning, and spatial understanding, with three core tasks of autonomous driving: environment perception, state prediction, and driving planning. These capabilities together form a complete scenario intelligence covering home environments, indoor robotics, and real-world traffic.

Two-Way Collaborative Intelligence

Xiaomi highlights that MiMo-Embodied allows knowledge transfer between indoor robotics and autonomous driving. During the testing of the system, they showed that improved decision-making skills in home robotics can improve road-driving performance and vice versa. The bidirectional enhancement creates a new framework for integrated smart systems.

Full-Chain Optimization for Real-World Deployments

To make sure deployment will be reliable, Xiaomi designed a multi-stage training pipeline including capability learning, Chain-of-Thought (CoT) inference enhancement, and reinforcement learning (RL) fine-tuning. This approach strengthens real-environment robustness, making the model suitable for complex, dynamic scenarios.

Performance Across 29 Benchmarks

Xiaomi claims that MiMo-Embodied outperformed leading open-source, closed-source, and proprietary models on **29 critical benchmarks.

Results of Embodied Intelligence

It realized state-of-the-art performance on 17 benchmarks, demonstrating exceptional skills in task planning, spatial understanding, and affordance prediction.

Results of Autonomous Driving

It achieved state-of-the-art results in 12 benchmarks, ranging from perception to state forecasting to driving planning, setting a new bar for multi-stage driving intelligence.

General Visual-Language Understanding

MiMo-Embodied also demonstrated advanced generalization in visual-language tasks, confirming its versatility across broader AI domains.

Xiaomi Fully Opens the Model to Developers and Researchers

The model and codebase of MiMo-Embodied have been opened up by Xiaomi, reinforcing the commitment of the company to transparent and collaborative research. Developers can explore, adapt, and build on the model through the official repositories. By opening up MiMo-Embodied, Xiaomi wants to accelerate innovation within the space of intelligent robotics, smart mobility, and connected ecosystems.

The surprising detail in Xiaomi’s published HyperOS 3 eligible devices list is that while the Xiaomi 12T Pro will surely get the update, it won’t be the case for the Xiaomi 12T. This has drawn the attention of users since both models came out simultaneously and had similar expectations regarding updates.

This means that the Xiaomi 12T was not in the initial planning schedule, so the company hasn’t started internal testing on this model for HyperOS 3.

Why the Xiaomi 12T Pro Qualifies for HyperOS 3

Although both devices have a very proximal release timeline, the 12T Pro is special because its Chinese counterpart is sold as Redmi K50 Ultra, which has a much longer software roadmapping in the Chinese market. This positioning ensures early access to new firmware like the HyperOS 3 that will run on top of Android 15.

The Xiaomi 12T does not have a twin in the Chinese market, however, so it doesn’t benefit from the same development cycle. Indeed, HyperOS 3 preparations for the model have not been started as per current internal roadmaps.

What This Means for Xiaomi 12T Users

While the Xiaomi 12T Pro is confirmed to move forward with HyperOS 3, the standard Xiaomi 12T stays on HyperOS 2.2 based on Android 15. This situation does not indicate any negative stance toward the device but rather reflects Xiaomi’s structured software policy for global and China-based model families.

That means users of the Xiaomi 12T should still get a stable software experience, while future consideration might adjust the update roadmap of the device since Xiaomi does periodically revise compatibility lists.

For Xiaomi users, it has become very important to choose between a MediaTek Dimensity or Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, especially considering the brand’s expansion in flagship, affordable flagship, and mid-range categories. This review tries to explain how Xiaomi strategically applies Snapdragon chipsets on premium devices like Xiaomi 15 Ultra, while shifting the high-value devices to MediaTek-based ones like Xiaomi 15T Pro.

Xiaomi’s Dual-Vendor Strategy

Xiaomi’s chipset choices directly support its global market segmentation, ensuring each category of device receives the ideal balance of performance and cost.

Xiaomi incorporates Qualcomm Snapdragon platforms into premium products where, along with sustained performance, advanced ISP features, and next-generation connectivity are key. Xiaomi bases its value-focused T-series and selected POCO models on MediaTek Dimensity, where performance-per-dollar takes precedence.

Snapdragon in Flagship Models

For years, Xiaomi has chosen Snapdragon for its high-end products. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite built on a 3nm process, shows clearly how the company favors sustained thermal performance, advanced GPU capabilities, and superior camera processing. This ensures a flagship-grade user experience across heavy workloads, from high-end gaming to AI applications and pro photography.

MediaTek in Affordable Flagship Devices

MediaTek plays a strategic role in Xiaomi’s affordable flagship segment. The Xiaomi 15T Pro, powered with the Dimensity 9400+, achieves near-flagship CPU and GPU performance without compromising the much lower cost of the overall product. POCO models like the Poco X7 Pro (China: Redmi Turbo 4 variant) have the Dimensity 8400-Ultra for their functionality, achieving stable gaming performance with competitive power efficiency and strong thermal consistency during long sessions.

Performance, Efficiency, and Thermal Behavior

Performance characteristics between Snapdragon and MediaTek differ due to their core architecture and optimization strategies.

Peak Performance and Sustained Performance

The “all-big-core” strategy of MediaTek in its high-end chips yields strong peak benchmark results. However, under longer workloads, those chips will reach thermal limits sooner and throttle. The traditional Snapdragon P+E structure allows the SoC to distribute background and high-load tasks efficiently, maintaining superior sustained performance in long gaming sessions and heavy productivity use.

Power Efficiency and Battery Behavior

Snapdragon generally provides better efficiency in mixed daily use since it always features dedicated efficiency cores, hence providing longer screen-on time in flagship Xiaomi devices. MediaTek chips do well during short, intensive tasks and, quite often, run cooler in mid-range gaming conditions. This fact makes MediaTek strong in burst-based use while making Snapdragon better for long, continuous workloads.

Connectivity and Imaging Capabilities

Connectivity and the imaging experience are core to Xiaomi’s premium device strategy, in which Snapdragon maintains certain key advantages.

Modem and Wireless Performance

Snapdragon platforms give industry-leading 5G Advanced capability via the X75 modem, providing enhanced global roaming, advanced carrier aggregation, and AI-assisted signal optimization. This adds strong value for international travellers and users in dense urban networks.

MediaTek supports 5G and Wi-Fi 7 standards but lacks the proprietary modem features driven by AI on Qualcomm’s flagship platforms.

Camera Processing and ISP Quality

Qualcomm’s Spectra ISP forms the backbone of Xiaomi’s high-end image quality successes, especially when combined with Leica-tuned camera systems. It enables accurate color processing and better performance in low light conditions. MediaTek’s Imagiq ISP is getting better with time, and it’s supporting ultra-high-resolution sensors, but Snapdragon still has an edge in computational photography pipelines.

Software Longevity and Developer Support

Long-term software support is a priority for many Xiaomi device users, especially the modders or enthusiasts.

Custom ROM Support and Long-Term Maintenance

Snapdragon chipsets are far more compatible with custom ROMs thanks to the open kernel policies of Qualcomm and the highly developer-friendly documentation. In contrast, MediaTek has had limited availability of source code historically, which implies fewer options for long-term maintenance on community ROMs.

Inner Chip Strategy of Xiaomi

Xiaomi also develops its own silicon, including the XRING O1 platform. Though not currently widely deployed, a second-generation chipset to follow this one could help to further enhance Xiaomi’s autonomy and improve the long-term bargaining power the company could use against both Qualcomm and MediaTek. This also potentially shapes future generations of Xiaomi devices at all tiers.

Which Chipset Should Xiaomi Users Choose?

The ideal chipset depends on the user’s priorities and on the Xiaomi device category. Snapdragon still remains superior for flagship-level performance, advanced camera systems, global 5G capabilities, and long-term software longevity. MediaTek offers great performance per cost, particularly in Xiaomi’s affordable flagships and mid-range gaming devices, by offering efficient daily use and stable thermal behavior.

For Xiaomi buyers:

• Choose Snapdragon for global connectivity, pro-grade photography, sustained gaming, and custom ROM potential.
• Choose MediaTek for excellent value, fast burst performance, and cost-efficient mid-range gaming stability.

Both serve critical roles in Xiaomi’s multi-tier strategy for serving diverse global users effectively.

Xiaomi has officially launched HyperOS 3, ushering in the much-anticipated Super Island or Hyper Island feature alongside a series of targeted upgrades focused on business efficiency, cross-platform collaboration, and advanced security. For organizations and productivity-focused users, this release signals a strategic shift in Xiaomi’s ecosystem. To know if your device is eligible for latest HyperOS 3, check it from MemeOS Enhancer app.

HyperOS Island: Multitasking, Reimagined

HyperOS 3’s headline feature, Hyper Island, redefines multitasking for professionals. The innovative interface uses ultra-narrow fonts, enabling simultaneous display of multiple “islands”—each representing a live app or workflow. Switching between tasks is seamless and intuitive; a quick gesture provides instant access to necessary tools via a pop-up window. This translates to reduced friction and increased efficiency for power users.

New Icons and Visuals

With HyperOS 3, status bar icons and symbols have been changed. Additionally, new iOS style elements have been added to the design.

Enhanced Visuals for Focus and Clarity

Visual improvements go beyond aesthetics. The AI-generated dynamic wallpapers offer a clean, modern workspace, while the new centered clock lock screen and refined depth-of-field effects support a distraction-free environment. Updated desktop layouts and high-definition icons ensure quick navigation, and the simplified status bar keeps essential information front and center.

Intelligent Photo Management

Photo albums have been redesigned with business users in mind. Enhanced sorting controls streamline asset management, and intelligent recognition (including pet identification) supports a range of use cases. Large photo and video transfers can now be completed with a simple copy-paste—even between iPhone and Xiaomi devices—simplifying cross-platform collaboration.

Seamless Cross-Device Connectivity

HyperOS 3 is engineered for professionals using multiple devices. File drag-and-drop, multi-window application access, and Face ID unlocking work seamlessly across Xiaomi phones, MacBooks, and iPads. Dual iPhone/Xiaomi users gain two-way message synchronization and mirror mode for direct replies, streamlining communication and reducing device switching.

Xiaoai AI Assistant: Productivity Redefined

The upgraded Xiaoai assistant now delivers faster search, smarter photo recognition, and context-aware suggestions. The new “circle screen” function and “one-step direct access” promise support for 80+ business apps and 1,000+ functions by the end of Q3, further reducing the time spent on routine tasks. This feature is only for China.

Advanced Security and Compliance

HyperOS 3 elevates security with robust data encryption and proactive post-quantum cryptographic algorithms. Device search functionality works even when hardware is powered off or offline. Fine-grained permission management allows users to restrict app access to specific photos, ensuring compliance with privacy requirements.

Device Compatibility and Update Readiness

For those seeking to maximize their experience the MemeOS Enhancer app (available on the Play Store) offer additional information, early access to updates, and feature enhancements.

According to new data from Omdia, the Middle East smartphone market excluding Turkey saw a strong rebound in Q3 2025. Driven by growing demand for mid-range 4G and affordable 5G phones, shipments grew by 23% year-on-year, reaching 15.1 million units. Brands expand their presence in emerging markets by introducing competitively priced devices-a theme also explored in our Xiaomi Market Insights and Xiaomi Global Expansion reports. This growth indicates that the market is becoming extremely dynamic with a high level of focus on performance-to-price efficiency.

Market Growth Driven by Mid-Range and Affordable 5G Demand

The latest Omdia analysis indicates that consumers are upgrading from older devices to mid-range models offering improved performance and better connectivity. This trend is being supported by the strengthening of their cost-effective product lineups by manufacturers, ensuring users have access to capable smartphones without premium-tier prices. Affordable 4G models are still contributing a significant portion of the total shipments due to their accessibility and reliability.

Vendor Performance in Q3 2025

Each of the major vendors posted positive year-on-year growth, with several brands enjoying particularly good momentum throughout the region. Their performance underlines the competitive nature of the Middle Eastern smartphone landscape.

• Samsung shipped 5.2 million units, taking up a 34% market share and seeing a 22% YoY increase.
• Transsion reached 2.7 million units with an 18% share, growing 47% YoY.
• Xiaomi shipped 2.3 million units, taking 15% market share and recording an impressive 35% YoY growth.
• Honor reached 1.6 million units with a 10% share and an astonishing 128% YoY growth.
• Apple shipped 1.4 million units, holding a 9% share with 14% YoY growth.

Xiaomi Logs Strong Performance in the Middle East

Xiaomi’s annual increase of 35% points to the company’s continued push toward offering reliable mid-range and entry-level devices targeted at emerging markets. The brand remains committed to growing its ecosystem while ensuring affordable pricing; meanwhile, it offers recent design developments, power-efficient chipsets, and extended software support. The presence of Xiaomi is further strengthened by the increasing adoption of affordable 5G models, aligning with broader regional consumer demand.

With the current shipment momentum, analysts anticipate further mass-market smartphone adoption. Manufacturers are expected to keep investing in cost-efficient platforms and wider 5G accessibility. These developments hint at continued stability of the uptrend for brands with strong value-driven portfolios, a category in which Xiaomi is well-positioned to benefit from the region’s next wave of upgrades.

Source

In the span of time between 2024 and 2025, Xiaomi had transitioned from a smartphone and IoT manufacturer to a full “Human x Car x Home” ecosystem company. Certain important features of that changeover include Xiaomi’s ambitious EV investment, the Xiaomi 15S Pro, and the company’s first 3nm chip, XRING O1. The article looks at Xiaomi’s automotive profitability, semiconductor independence strategy, and flagship roadmap.

EV Investment: Profitable Faster Than Expected

Xiaomi’s electric vehicle division reached an operational profit of 700 million RMB (~97 million USD) by Q3 2025, overturning early concerns about the venture. Though the EV industry is capital-intensive and traditionally slow to profitability, Xiaomi was able to achieve operational success just 18 months from the sales launch of its first vehicle, the SU7.

This rapid achievement taps into Xiaomi’s experience with supply chain management in smartphones, which helps bring down per-unit costs and raise margins. Tesla, for example, took 10 years to report its maiden quarterly profit, while fellow Chinese EV startups Xpeng and Nio each took about eight years to reach break-even. Xiaomi’s focused approach-investing resources in the SU7 instead of creating multiple models-helped the company achieve such early success.

XRING O1 and Xiaomi 15S Pro: Strategic Semiconductor Independence

The Xiaomi 15S Pro was launched in May 2025, followed by the XRING O1-Xiaomi’s first 3nm chip. This forms one more step toward independence from Qualcomm and MediaTek while allowing the same kind of vertical integration as Apple.

Technical Highlights of XRING O1:

• CPU: 2x Cortex-X925 Prime cores (3.9 GHz), 1x Cortex-A725 Performance cores (3.4 GHz), 2x Cortex-A520 Efficiency cores (1.8 GHz)
• GPU: ARM Immortalis-G925 MC16
• TSMC 3 nm process: N3E

Performance benchmarks show that XRING O1 is capable but slightly behind Snapdragon 8 Elite in synthetic scores. For example, AnTuTu reports ~2,535,000 versus 2,750,000 for Snapdragon 8 Elite, while even Geekbench single-core/multi-core scores also show a small gap.

The main drawback is the external 5G modem (MediaTek T800), reducing battery efficiency and causing thermal problems while using 5G. Xiaomi offsets this with a 6100 mAh battery, but energy efficiency is worse compared to Snapdragon-based rivals.

Why XRING O1 Matters Strategically

In spite of performance gaps, XRING O1 secures technological independence in a world marred by semiconductor supply uncertainties. Owning a functional homegrown chip gives Xiaomi leverage in negotiations with Qualcomm, assuring continuity in case of supply chain disruptions.

The next XRING O2, which is expected in Q2 2026, targets better performance and integration, which should reduce the gap to the competitors, supporting future Xiaomi devices such as the 17S Pro.

Xiaomi Flagship Roadmap: 17 Series and Beyond

Xiaomi skipped the “16” series entirely, going straight to the 17 series, which was launched in China on September 25, 2025. Key highlights:

• Xiaomi 17/17 Pro/17 Pro Max: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, battery 6300–7500 mAh
• Magic Back Screen on Pro models for notifications, AI assistant interactions, and selfies
• 17 Ultra (photo-centric) set for late December 2025 in China, global launch expected February 2026

The 17S Pro, using XRING O2, should be coming out in mid-2026. This will put Xiaomi’s capability to match or outperform competitors in chip performance while sustaining independence to a test.

Xiaomi’s investment in EVs paid off by reaching profitability in just 18 months, while the project of the XRING O1 became a strategic bet: less powerful compared to Snapdragon but vital for long-term semiconductor independence. Further, Xiaomi is supposed to firm up its position in both smartphones and chips with the future XRING O2 and 17S Pro. Besides this, it will continue providing ecosystem synergy across EVs, smartphones, and smart devices.

On November 20, IT Home reported that popular tech blogger @DigitalChatStation revealed, via Weibo, that Xiaomi’s REDMI division is testing a 200-megapixel large-sensor camera for a new smartphone. The insider claimed that the device is testing CMOS sensors such as the 1/1.56-inch HP5 and 1/1.4-inch HPE, along with a periscope telephoto sensor and an unreleased imaging sensor. This move indicates that REDMI is serious about improving mobile photography as multiple manufacturers are working on ultra-high-resolution sensors across the industry. More information about Xiaomi REDMI imaging innovations may be read here.

New Imaging Approach from REDMI

The blogger afterwards confirmed that the HPE sensor is an iterative upgrade of the HP9, customized and optimised for REDMI. Some thought this may be connected with Vivo’s HPB sensor; however, the HPE is specific to Xiaomi. This follows the strategy pursued by REDMI to push the performance of the camera in its flagship phones while keeping prices relatively competitive. As industry insiders point out, though one-inch sensors are a rare breed in smartphone cameras, more and larger 1/1.4-inch and 1/1.56-inch sensors are being implemented as a norm for high-end imaging solutions.

Expected Features and Flagship Potential

According to the present testing, the future REDMI device may include:

• 200MP main sensor (1/1.56-inch HP5 or 1/1.4-inch HPE)
• Periscope telephoto lens for extended optical zoom
• Advanced imaging AI and optimized image processing

It sets the stage for the device to become a flagship-level REDMI K Ultra series phone, coming after the REDMI K90 Pro Max, which boasts a 50MP main camera, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP 5X periscope telephoto lens with 10X lossless zoom and OIS. The 200MP sensor of the coming model would mean a formidable jump in the imaging capabilities of REDMI.

Industry Trends and Implications

The move to 200MP sensors is indicative of the trend within the industry towards ultra-high-resolution cameras that improve computational photography and low-light performance. A number of manufacturers are also working on similar sensors, meaning mobile imaging technology is improving fast. The result for users could be sharper photos, better zoom, and more flexible camera arrangements in the near future.