Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi 16 series is expected to debut around six months from now, with the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro launching first in China.
2. The global launch of the Xiaomi 16 is anticipated after March 2026, potentially coinciding with MWC 2026 in Barcelona.
3. The Xiaomi 16 Ultra is rumored to retain the Samsung ISOCELL HP9 sensor, dropping the variable aperture main camera from previous models.
4. The Xiaomi 16 Pro is expected to feature an improved telephoto camera with a new Sony Lytia sensor and enhanced Leica optics.
5. There is uncertainty regarding the continuation of the 5x optical zoom in the Xiaomi 16 Pro.
The Xiaomi 16 series is probably still about six months away from its official debut. Currently, Xiaomi is anticipated to introduce the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Pro models in China first. In contrast, the global launch of the Xiaomi 16 is not expected until after March 2026, potentially aligning with the Mobile World Congress 2026 (MWC 2026) taking place in Barcelona from March 2 to March 5.
Leaks and Rumors
However, tipsters like Kartikey Singh have reportedly obtained early insights regarding Xiaomi’s upcoming flagship devices. At this point, there’s less information available about the Xiaomi 16 Ultra. Singh indicates that it will likely keep the Samsung ISOCELL HP9, which took the place of the Sony IMX858 found in last year’s Xiaomi 14 Ultra (currently $949 – used like new on Amazon). The leaker also mentions that the Xiaomi 16 Ultra will not reintroduce the variable aperture main camera that Xiaomi has dropped for this year’s models.
New Features Expected
On the other hand, Singh claims that the Xiaomi 16 Pro is expected to come with an improved telephoto camera. While he hasn’t provided detailed information yet, he revealed that Sony will be supplying Xiaomi with a Lytia (LYT) sensor that features a larger optical format compared to the 1/2.51-inch IMX858 used in the Xiaomi 15 Pro. Reportedly, this new sensor will also include a bigger aperture and enhanced Leica optics to improve zoom capabilities; it’s still uncertain if Xiaomi will continue to use a 5x optical zoom.
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