Xiaomi Holds Media Hands-On Event Before Official Announcement, Featuring the Latest & Fastest SoC "Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6"
Ahead of its global official announcement on Tuesday, November 17th at 10 PM (Japan time), Xiaomi's high-end smartphone "Xiaomi 18 Pro" series is already accepting pre-registrations in Japan.
A hands-on event for media and influencers was held, and we were able to get a first look at the actual device, so let's introduce it with a focus on photos.
The Xiaomi 18 Pro series has already been announced in China, so its specifications are already known. This time, we were able to experience both the "Xiaomi 18 Pro" and "Xiaomi 18 Pro Max."
The 6.4-inch Xiaomi 18 Pro and 6.9-inch Xiaomi 18 Pro Max. Differences include the SoC and the presence/absence of FeliCa.
The Higher-End "Pro Max" Also Features FeliCa! This is Great News. Rear Display Shows Notifications, Enables Selfies, and Displays Original Wallpapers
The differences between the two models are not extensive: the SoC ("Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6" vs. "Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6"), screen size (6.4-inch vs. 6.9-inch), presence of FeliCa (only on Pro Max), and whether the main camera sensor has a LOFIC structure (only on Pro Max). However, the inclusion of FeliCa, even if only on the Pro Max, is a welcome feature.
These four colors appear to be available.
A special edition in red + translucent, previously offered in China, was also on display.
Simply dazzling.
The AI button on the left side can be customized by the user.
The SIM slot supports dual nanoSIMs and eSIM. microSD is not supported.
A unique aspect of the Xiaomi 18 Pro series is its rear display. This display can show previews for selfies, notifications, incoming calls, time, calendar, and even custom wallpapers and apps. It also supports always-on display, offering not only practicality but also a way to add personality to your smartphone.
The noteworthy rear display. It featured an animated jellyfish wallpaper.
Mini apps can be launched.
Mini apps are launched by swiping up from the bottom of the screen.
Even small games.
The selfie camera is launched by swiping from the left. The shutter can be triggered by showing your palm.
Another interesting feature to note is the "Privacy Display." With a single tap, you can switch modes to prevent "peeking" from the side. While not immediately obvious, tilting the screen darkens it, making the content difficult to see. Additionally, the front camera can detect if someone is peeking and alert you with a vibration.
Also note the Privacy Display feature.
It's hard to tell from the front, but when tilted, the display becomes invisible as shown.
The Flashy Cosmic Blue is Intriguing! Camera Features a Triple-Lens Setup with Two 200-Megapixel Sensors Plus an Ultrawide, Of Course, a Leica Collaboration
Among the color variations, Cosmic Blue is striking. The dazzling, glitter-infused back resembles a galaxy. It's flashy and makes you want one! Black and white also emphasize a metallic feel, offering a simple yet premium look. They exude the presence expected of a high-end model.
The main and telephoto cameras are both 200 megapixels. These are joined by an ultrawide lens, forming a triple-camera setup. Naturally, it's a co-development with Leica, and the ability to switch between "LEICA Vibrant" and "LEICA Authentic" photo styles remains the same as previous models.
The camera features a triple-lens setup. The telephoto, of course, is a periscope type.
Again, the lens bears the inscription "LEICA VARIO-SUMMILUX."
Telephoto up to 120x.
Two styles, "LEICA Vibrant" and "LEICA Authentic," can be applied.
While detailed information, including domestic pricing, awaits the official announcement, this device is packed with elements of an ultra-high-end machine: the latest CPU, powerful cameras, attractive design, and novel features. It's likely to be a hot topic again.
