Specs, pricing and first-look takeaways

Xiaomi unveiled the 17, 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max in China with a distinctive secondary screen on the rear and refreshed camera arrays, pushing its premium play ahead of global rollouts. The 17 line starts from ¥4,499 (about $630) for the base model, ¥4,999 for the Pro, and ¥5,999 for the Pro Max, with preorders open and full sales beginning September 27 domestically. Early hands-on notes highlight improved computational photography, faster charging and a sleeker chassis that trims weight without sacrificing battery life. Xiaomi has not detailed international availability, but a European launch in early 2026 is considered likely, aligning with the MWC cycle.

What it means for the Android flagship race

The design tweaks double as marketing: the small rear panel enables glanceable widgets and camera framing tricks that differentiate in a crowded field. Rival OEMs face a pricing squeeze as component costs stabilize yet consumers hold onto phones longer; Xiaomi is betting feature novelty and aggressive value can pry upgrades loose. The Pro Max’s imaging stack—bigger sensors, better stabilization and tuned HDR—targets content creators, while the standard 17 may anchor carrier bundles. If global timing slips, grey-market imports could shape early buzz beyond China, but software support and band compatibility will remain decisive for buyers outside Xiaomi’s home base.