Xiaomi has officially introduced the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max, confirming a redesigned rear panel that features what the company calls the “Magic Back Screen.” The new phone series will debut later this month and will also mark the global launch of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 processor.
Redesigned Rear Panel With Secondary Display
In a promotional video released today, Xiaomi showcased the new design, highlighting a screen-shaped panel integrated into the rear camera housing. This secondary display is set within the camera module and can show time, notifications, and other contextual information. Unlike earlier models with standard glass or metal coverings, the new design combines functionality with aesthetics.
Imaging System Developed With Leica
The Xiaomi 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max are equipped with a 50-megapixel Leica triple-camera system. The main sensor uses an f/1.67 aperture, while the telephoto lens features an f/3.0 aperture with a 115mm focal length and supports 5x optical zoom. The ultra-wide camera offers a 17mm focal length. The branding of Leica is visible next to the module, continuing Xiaomi’s collaboration with the German optics manufacturer.
First to Launch Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5
Lu Weibing, president of Xiaomi’s mobile division, confirmed that the 17 series will be the first smartphones worldwide to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen5 chipset. He described this release as the result of Xiaomi’s five-year strategy to build a stronger presence in the high-end smartphone segment.
Market Positioning and Strategy
Xiaomi founder and CEO Lei Jun stated that the 17 series delivers a “cross-generational upgrade” and directly challenges the iPhone in terms of performance and positioning. This aligns with Xiaomi’s long-term strategy of competing in the premium smartphone category.
Revisiting the Secondary Display Concept
Xiaomi previously experimented with rear-facing displays in the Mi 11 Ultra, which featured a 1.1-inch “Osmo Window” beside the camera module. That display allowed users to view notifications, monitor battery life, control media playback, and preview selfies using the rear camera. The design was not continued in later Ultra models, but the 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max appear to expand on the concept by integrating a larger, module-wide screen.
Launch Event Coming This Month
The official launch event for the Xiaomi 17 series is scheduled for this month, where the company is expected to disclose full specifications, pricing, and market availability. With new hardware, an updated design, and Leica optics, the devices will represent Xiaomi’s latest push in the flagship smartphone market.
