Xiaomi 16: A Comprehensive Evolution of the Compact Flagship, with an Anticipated Periscope Telephoto Lens and Performance Upgrades

Xiaomi 16: A Comprehensive Evolution of the Compact Flagship, with an Anticipated Periscope Telephoto Lens and Performance UpgradesWhile 2024 is still underway, news of 2025's new phones is already flooding the market, with the highly anticipated Xiaomi 16 generating considerable buzz. The Xiaomi 15 garnered praise for its excellent screen, performance, and battery life, but its imaging system, particularly its telephoto capabilities, still has room for improvement

Xiaomi 16: A Comprehensive Evolution of the Compact Flagship, with an Anticipated Periscope Telephoto Lens and Performance Upgrades

While 2024 is still underway, news of 2025's new phones is already flooding the market, with the highly anticipated Xiaomi 16 generating considerable buzz. The Xiaomi 15 garnered praise for its excellent screen, performance, and battery life, but its imaging system, particularly its telephoto capabilities, still has room for improvement. Many Xiaomi fans believe that incorporating a periscope telephoto lens in the Xiaomi 16 would perfectly address this deficiency, making it a truly all-around compact flagship.

Rumors from tech bloggers suggest Xiaomi is evaluating the possibility of including a periscope telephoto lens in the Xiaomi 16. This is undoubtedly good news for users seeking a compact flagship. A periscope telephoto lens significantly extends shooting range, achieving superior bokeh while maintaining image quality. If the Xiaomi 16 ultimately features this lens, its imaging performance could rival that of top-tier flagship phones.

In fact, aside from the slightly underwhelming telephoto capabilities, the Xiaomi 15 has almost no other shortcomings. Therefore, building on the Xiaomi 15's numerous strengths while significantly enhancing its imaging capabilities, the Xiaomi 16 promises to be a truly comprehensive compact flagship.

Beyond the periscope telephoto lens, other specifications of the Xiaomi 16 are gradually becoming clear, suggesting it could become a new benchmark for compact phones. First, the screen size is expected to maintain the 6.36-inch straight-edged display of the Xiaomi 13 series. This size, well-received since the launch of the Xiaomi 13, offers ample screen real estate while maintaining portability and comfortable handling.

In terms of performance, the Xiaomi 16 is expected to debut with the second-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2+ (SM8850), manufactured using TSMC's N3P process. Compared to its predecessor, it boasts significant improvements in power efficiency and transistor density. The debut of this new generation chip also suggests a faster release date for the Xiaomi 16.

Design-wise, the Xiaomi 16 is expected to retain design elements from the Xiaomi 15, including the wrapped frame, and continue using the classic combination of a metal frame and glass back. The screen is expected to remain a 1.5K AMOLED panel, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate, high-frequency PWM dimming for eye protection, and ultrasonic fingerprint unlocking.

While the Xiaomi 15 addressed battery life issues with its Jinshajiang battery technology, the Xiaomi 16 is expected to further enhance battery capacity and fast charging capabilities. Considering that many new phones this year have reached 6000mAh batteries, and 7000mAh batteries are anticipated for next year, the Xiaomi 16 could very well boast a 6000mAh battery.

The Xiaomi 16 will likely come pre-installed with Surge OS 3.0, which is expected to offer further refinements in stability and underlying optimizations for a smoother user experience. Additionally, features like full-function NFC, infrared remote control, dual speakers, X-axis linear motor, IP68/69 dust and water resistance, and offline communication are also likely to be retained.

Of course, the above information is based on current market trends and predictions; the actual specifications await official announcement. Furthermore, the pricing of the Xiaomi 16 will be crucial and directly impact purchasing decisions.

In summary, the Xiaomi 16 is expected to offer comprehensive improvements in imaging, screen size, performance, design, and battery life, significantly enhancing its competitiveness. Whether you prioritize a compact flagship or demand superior imaging, the Xiaomi 16 deserves attention. Whether it will become the king of compact flagships in 2025 remains to be seen. What are your expectations for the Xiaomi 16? Share your thoughts in the comments below.