Just when we thought the lineup was complete, a new report suggests Xiaomi is prepping a fifth entry in its latest flagship series. It’s a confusing development that blurs the lines between a refresh and a redundant release.
A mysterious fifth phone enters the chat
Just as the dust was settling on the recent launch of the Ultra model, it seems the company isn’t quite finished with the 17 series. In a new report from a well-known tipster, details have emerged regarding a device currently in testing that claims to be a "minor iteration" of the existing family. While the 17, Pro, Pro Max, and Ultra seemed to cover all the bases, this new handset is throwing a wrench in the works.
Rumored specifications
Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC
Display: 6.8-inch to 6.9-inch flat screen
Bezels: Ultra-narrow, symmetrical design
Camera: Periscope telephoto lens
The leak indicates this device is slated for a release in the first half of 2026. It combines the sheer size of the Pro Max with a distinct flat panel, running on the same high-end silicon found in its siblings.
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Why release another flagship now?
A fifth Xiaomi 17 series phone may be underway. | Image credit — Digital Chat Station
This potential release raises some valid questions about market saturation. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max already occupies the large-screen premium slot, and introducing a device with nearly identical specs—specifically the screen size and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset—feels like a move destined to cannibalize their own sales. The report suggests this is an incremental upgrade, but without a standout feature to differentiate it, the device risks getting lost in the shuffle.
Competitors often release "S" cycle updates or FE (Fan Edition) models to bridge the gap between generations, but those usually come with clear trade-offs or price cuts. Here, we are looking at premium hardware that mirrors the current top-tier offerings too closely. If the launch timeline holds true, this phone would arrive just months after the Ultra, potentially confusing consumers who just put money down for the "best" version of the phone.
How many flagship phones in one series is too many?
Three is the magic number (Base, Pro, Ultra).
100%
The more the merrier; I like specific options.
0%
It doesn’t matter as long as the prices are good.
0%
Five is definitely pushing it; it’s too confusing.
0%
Who is this device for?
While I usually advocate for more consumer choice, this strategy feels a bit messy. Who is this device for? If this device is strictly a "flat screen" alternative to the Pro Max, it serves a very niche audience that refuses to use curved displays but demands the absolute highest specs.
At this point this is still a rumor, but if true, it will be interesting to see where this device will fit. It feels like a manufacturer flexing its supply chain muscle rather than solving a user problem. However, if you are a gamer who strictly prefers flat glass for touch responsiveness, this might be the one outlier worth watching.
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Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.
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