Xiaomi has officially unveiled its latest flagship lineup, the Xiaomi 17 series, which includes the Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi 17 Pro, and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. This release positions the Chinese smartphone manufacturer squarely against Apple’s iPhone 17 family, as both share compelling features and robust hardware in the competitive premium smartphone market. A notable highlight of the Xiaomi 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max is the introduction of a secondary rear display, known as the ‘Dynamic Back Display.’ This innovative design extends the display over the entire camera module, creating a sleek, futuristic appearance while also improving functionality. Originally seen in the Mi 11 Ultra in 2021, the new implementation is significantly larger and more sophisticated.
The rear screen on the 17 Pro measures 2.7 inches, offers a 120Hz refresh rate, and reaches peak brightness of 3,500 nits, while the 17 Pro Max features a slightly larger 2.9-inch panel. These displays serve practical purposes, allowing users to manage notifications, play music, handle calls, use timers, and even capture selfies with the main camera. The capability to record 8K selfie videos using the primary sensor is expected to attract vloggers and content creators. Additionally, Xiaomi has launched a unique case for the Pro models that incorporates gaming controls, effectively transforming the device into a handheld console reminiscent of the Game Boy.
All three models are powered by Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, making the Xiaomi 17 series one of the first smartphones globally to feature this advanced chipset. Display quality is also impressive, with the Xiaomi 17 and 17 Pro equipped with 6.3-inch AMOLED LTPO displays that support adaptive refresh rates ranging from 1 to 120Hz and peak brightness of 3,500 nits. The larger 17 Pro Max comes with a 6.9-inch display showcasing the same specifications. Photography remains a key focus for Xiaomi, as the base Xiaomi 17 features a Leica-branded 50-megapixel triple-camera system, which includes a primary sensor, ultrawide lens, and a floating telephoto unit.
The Pro models retain the same main and ultrawide cameras while adding a 5x telephoto lens for improved zoom capabilities. Battery life varies across the lineup; the Xiaomi 17 is equipped with a substantial 7,000mAh battery supporting 100W wired and 50W wireless fast charging. The Pro models have a slightly reduced capacity of 6,300mAh, while the Pro Max boasts an impressive 7,500mAh battery. Despite the size variations, all devices offer the same fast-charging capabilities. Currently, the Xiaomi 17 series is available exclusively in China, with an international launch expected in early 2026, although specific dates for India have not yet been disclosed.
Pricing in China starts at 4,499 Yuan (approximately ₹56,000) for the base model, with the 17 Pro starting at 4,999 Yuan (approximately ₹62,000) and the premium 17 Pro Max at 5,999 Yuan (approximately ₹74,500). With its striking design, powerful specifications, and groundbreaking rear display, the Xiaomi 17 series emerges as a significant competitor to Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup and a strong player in the global premium smartphone market.