The series is widely rumored to launch in China around September 2026. However, a GSMA database listing pointed to a possible launch around November 2026, creating some uncertainty.
The September window aligns with Qualcomm's expected unveiling of its next-generation chipsets.
Leaks suggest Qualcomm will release two variants of its next flagship chip: the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 (model number SM8950) and the higher-performance Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro (SM8975). Both are expected to be built on TSMC's 2nm (N2P) process.
A recurring leak claims the standard Xiaomi 18 will use the regular Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, while the 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max could get the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. The reason cited is cost — the Pro chip is reportedly significantly more expensive. Some earlier leaks suggested all three models could share the same chip, but the chipset split is the more recent and specific claim.
The Pro chip is tipped to support LPDDR6 RAM and feature a different GPU cluster.
The Xiaomi 18 Pro is reportedly being tested with a hybrid hardware-software privacy display that limits off-axis viewing, similar to technology currently exclusive to the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra.
The camera system is the most heavily leaked feature. Multiple reports point to a major leap in imaging hardware.
Battery capacity is rumored to see massive increases across the lineup, using silicon-carbon technology for higher density without increasing thickness.