Xiaomi Omitted Model Numbers for New Smartphones to Align with Apple’s iPhone 17, Unveiling the “Most Significant Advancement” with Xiaomi 17 Series

Xiaomi’s Strategic Shift: Skipping a Generation to Compete with Apple

Chinese smartphone manufacturers are well-known for their ability to closely emulate the practices of leading tech giants, particularly Apple. A recent example of this strategy is seen in Xiaomi’s decision to forego an entire smartphone generation, opting instead for a naming convention that aligns with Apple’s iPhone 17 series.

xiaomi’s NEVER beating the iPhone copy allegations 😭their last phones were called the Xiaomi 15, Xiaomi 15 Pro, and Xiaomi 15 Ultrathis year, they’ve completely skipped the 16 series and also changed the naming system to Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi 17 Pro, and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max 🤦 pic.twitter.com/JF44UphNz5

— System Settings (@app_settings) September 15, 2025

Change in Naming Convention and Model Features

Initially, Xiaomi was set to release its 16-series smartphones shortly. Instead, the company has chosen to launch the 17 series, skipping the 16th generation entirely. Adding a layer of sophistication to its high-end offering, Xiaomi has also rebranded its ‘Ultra’ variant to ‘Pro Max, ’ a clear nod to Apple’s established naming scheme for its premium iPhone models.

Xiaomi just announced the all-new 17 Series – their “biggest upgrade ever”, coming a month earlier than usual. Three models are coming:• Xiaomi 17• Xiaomi 17 Pro• Xiaomi 17 Pro MaxLarger Pro displays, major camera upgrades and a serious performance leap. Big move for… pic.twitter.com/KKHqG2DXWZ

— Ben Geskin (@BenGeskin) September 15, 2025

Performance Enhancements and Pricing

Xiaomi’s upcoming 17 series is being marketed as the company’s most substantial advancement to date. According to an announcement made on Weibo, the base model will reportedly maintain its pricing structure despite featuring significant performance upgrades powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 System on Chip (SoC).

To put this into perspective, the previous Xiaomi 15 was priced at approximately 4, 499 CNY (around $630).It is anticipated that the introductory model of the Xiaomi 17 series will also adhere to a similar price point, offering consumers enhanced specifications without increased costs.

Weibo user guarantees this is Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. Design = Xiaomi 11 Ultra rear display energy.pic.twitter.com/49c41Q6kaI

— Abhishek Yadav (@yabhishekhd) September 15, 2025

Expected Features and Rumors

In addition, leaks suggest that the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max may incorporate a unique rear display. This feature aligns with earlier rumors concerning the skipped 16th generation models. The anticipated rear display is designed to be integrated within the camera setup, allowing users to access notifications effortlessly without picking up their devices.

Visuals from recent leaks also show an additional camera module below the primary lens, likely intended for ultra-wide photography, indicating Xiaomi’s continued focus on enhancing camera functionality.

With these developments, Xiaomi appears poised to compete more aggressively in the high-end smartphone market, strategically aligning its product offerings with consumer expectations influenced by leading competitors.

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