Xiaomi 18 Pro series to launch globally this year
Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun confirmed that the 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max will go global in 2026, a much faster turnaround than last year's five-month delay. The phones feature dual 200MP cameras, large batteries, and the latest Snapdragon chips. Chinese pricing starts at ¥5,999, but global prices are expected to be higher.
The global release marks a strategic shift for Xiaomi, which previously staggered international availability by months. Last year's UK launch of the standard Xiaomi 17 arrived five months after its Chinese debut, while the more advanced Pro model never made it overseas. This year, the company appears to have consolidated its lineup, reportedly skipping an Ultra variant to focus entirely on the Pro series.
The hardware itself is substantial, with dual 200MP cameras, secondary rear displays, and battery capacities reaching 8500mAh in the Max model. Both phones support 100W wired and 50W wireless charging. Chinese pricing starts at ¥5,999 for the Pro and ¥6,999 for the Max, though converted global prices are expected to carry a significant premium.
The faster global rollout could pressure competitors like Samsung and Apple, who typically dominate Western flagship markets. Consumers in regions like the UK may gain earlier access to cutting-edge camera and battery technology that was previously delayed or withheld. However, the expected price premium over Chinese pricing could limit adoption, meaning the impact may be strongest among tech enthusiasts rather than mainstream buyers.