Following the launch of the Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max models in China in September, Xiaomi recently unveiled the top-of-the-line Xiaomi 17 Ultra. However, leaks suggest that Xiaomi isn’t finished with this series yet and that a new member will join the family in the first half of 2026.
A Mysterious Model in the Xiaomi 17 Series: Is an “S” Coming?
Although its official name is not yet confirmed, leaks claim that Xiaomi is working on an “intermediate update” (refresh) model built on the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. Some sources suggest this device could be the Xiaomi 17S Pro. It is said to come with a 6.8 or 6.9-inch flat screen with symmetrical and ultra-thin bezels.
Like the Ultra model, it will be powered by Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. It is rumored that the periscope telephoto camera system will be retained, but minor improvements will be made to the software and optics.
This mysterious device is expected to be introduced in the first half of 2026 (likely in the spring). It’s also confirmed that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will launch globally immediately after its Chinese launch. The device has completed certification processes in key markets such as India (BIS), Thailand (NBTC), and Singapore (IMDA).
March 2026: The Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the standard Xiaomi 17 are expected to be released globally around the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona.
Pro Models: It’s claimed that the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Pro Max models (those with a rear screen) may remain exclusive to the Chinese market for now, with only the standard and Ultra models available globally.
As a reminder, the newly introduced Ultra model… It stands out with its 200 MP periscope camera, 1-inch main sensor developed in collaboration with Leica, and the thinnest Ultra body to date at 8.29 mm.
