Early Launch Rumours Gain Traction
Xiaomi’s much-anticipated 16 Ultra could launch sooner than expected, according to industry insiders. While the brand traditionally releases its Ultra phones in Q1, new speculation suggests a late 2025 debut alongside the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro in China.
The buzz gained credibility after Xiaomi Group President Lu Weibing hinted at the upcoming device on Weibo, calling it a “new height of mobile imaging.” This statement confirms not only the device’s existence but also Xiaomi’s ongoing collaboration with Leica for optics.

Camera Overhaul: 200MP Telephoto in the Spotlight
If leaks are accurate, the Xiaomi 16 Ultra will continue Xiaomi’s aggressive push into professional-grade smartphone photography. The rear camera array is expected to include:
- 50MP primary sensor
- 200MP periscope telephoto lens (1/1.28-inch)
- 50MP Sony LYT600 ultra-wide sensor (1/2-inch)
Combined with Leica tuning and likely AI enhancements, the imaging setup could rival the very best from Samsung, Apple, and Huawei.
Powerful Specs to Match the Optics
Beyond photography, the Xiaomi 16 Ultra is expected to deliver top-tier performance:
- 6.8-inch LTPO AMOLED display
- 2K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
- Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset (yet to be officially announced)
- 7,000–7,500mAh battery with 100W wired and 50W wireless charging
If true, these specifications would place the 16 Ultra firmly in the ultra-premium flagship category, especially given Xiaomi’s past pricing.
India Launch Expected in 2026
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra was introduced in India at ₹1,09,999 for the 16GB + 512GB variant. If Xiaomi repeats this pattern, the 16 Ultra could arrive in early 2026 with similar or slightly higher pricing, depending on currency and component costs.
Closing Thoughts
With cutting-edge hardware, power-packed internals, and a continued focus on mobile photography, the Xiaomi 16 Ultra is shaping up to be a true flagship disrupter. If the early launch happens, it may even undercut rivals by hitting shelves during the festive season. Stay tuned for more updates as official details begin to surface.
