Xiaomi has built a consistent strategy around launching three models in its flagship series — Standard, Pro, and Ultra. In 2024, the company launched the Xiaomi 15, 15 Pro, and 15 Ultra in China, while only the 15 and 15 Ultra made it to India. For 2025, leaks suggest a new twist: Xiaomi could introduce two Pro models — including a compact variant called the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini.
📱 A Compact Flagship in the Works
According to a leak by Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini will feature a smaller 6.3-inch display compared to the regular 16 Pro’s 6.8-inch screen. Despite the smaller size, it’s still expected to offer premium flagship performance and camera hardware.
📸 Redesigned Camera Module
Both Xiaomi 16 Pro models are rumored to sport a large horizontal camera layout that takes up nearly a third of the rear panel. This design trend is reportedly in line with Apple’s rumored iPhone 17 Pro camera arrangement. Rendered images show a triple-camera cutout with extra slots for microphones and sensors, hinting at a periscope lens in both Pro variants.
💰 Price & Configuration Breakdown (USD)
| Variant | RAM | Storage | Expected Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 12 GB | 256 GB | $650 |
| Mid | 12 GB | 512 GB | $700 |
| High-End | 16 GB | 1 TB | $800 |
✅ Privileges – What Makes It a Worthy Flagship?
- Compact Premium Design: 6.3-inch form factor is ideal for users who prefer one-hand usability without compromising performance.
- Flagship SoC: Likely powered by the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 4, matching the regular Pro model’s performance.
- Camera Excellence: Triple rear cameras including periscope telephoto — rare for compact phones.
- High-Quality Display: OLED with 120Hz refresh rate and HDR support.
- Fast Charging: Expected 120W wired and 50W wireless charging like previous Pro models.
- Premium Build: Possibly IP68-rated with Gorilla Glass Victus or similar high-end protection.
⚠️ Problems – What Could Be the Downsides?
- Heating Issues: Previous Xiaomi Pro models struggled with heat under load — might affect performance during gaming or video editing.
- Software Optimization: HyperOS is still maturing; bugs and RAM management issues may carry over.
- Price-to-Size Dilemma: Paying flagship pricing for a smaller screen could deter buyers who equate size with value.
- Camera Differentiation: If the standard Xiaomi 16 only has two cameras, it’s unclear what sets the Mini apart besides form factor.
- Limited Global Availability: As with previous Pro models, the Mini variant might stay China-exclusive at launch.
🔍 Final Thoughts
The Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini could cater to a niche but valuable segment: users who want a full-featured flagship in a smaller body. With prices expected to start at $650 and go up to $800 depending on configuration, it may be a great option for compact phone lovers — if Xiaomi can address thermal and software issues.
Tags: Xiaomi 16 Pro Mini, Xiaomi 16 Pro, compact flagship, smartphone leaks, Xiaomi 2025 launch, periscope camera