Image: by Xiaomi
By Staff Writer | Open Chronicle
The launch of the iPhone 17 series might be just around the corner, but Xiaomi is already making waves with its latest offering—the Xiaomi 17 Pro, a sleek device that closely resembles Apple’s flagship, but with a major twist. Released just a week ago, the new Xiaomi smartphone has already been generating buzz, and its distinctive design is proving that the brand isn’t afraid to challenge industry norms.
Xiaomi 17 Pro Series Look officially revealed.
— Powered by latest & greatest SD 8 Elite Gen 5
— 120Hz LTPO Display with 1.1mm Narrow Bezel
— Secondary Rear Display
— Triple 50MP Cameras with LeicaAre you guys keen to buy this very unique Smartphone? pic.twitter.com/x7ugYaktyD
— TECH INFO (@TECHINFOSOCIALS) September 16, 2025
A Bold New Design Inspired by the iPhone 17 Pro
From the very first teaser, the Xiaomi 17 Pro immediately captured attention. With a design that closely resembles the iPhone 17 Pro, the smartphone could easily be mistaken for an Apple product at first glance. However, the key difference lies in the device’s rear design. Inspired by a combination of the latest iPhone 17 Pro and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7, the Xiaomi 17 Pro introduces a bold new approach: a dual-screen setup, highlighted by a secondary display on the back.
In a video shared on the Chinese social media platform Weibo, Xiaomi officially revealed its new series of premium smartphones, showcasing a significant design overhaul. The rear module of the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Pro Max features a large camera array that spans nearly the entire width of the device, but there’s a catch—this isn’t just a camera setup. Tucked within this module is the Magic Back Screen, an innovative secondary display designed to provide users with quick access to useful information.
While the full capabilities of the Magic Back Screen have yet to be fully unveiled, the teaser video hints that it could display essential data such as time, notifications, and possibly even other quick-access features, depending on the user’s needs.
A Leap in Smartphone Nomenclature
In an interesting move, Xiaomi has decided to skip a number and jump directly to the Xiaomi 17 series, clearly positioning itself against Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17. This branding shift aims to directly compete with Apple’s most anticipated flagship smartphones, and it shows Xiaomi’s commitment to entering the high-end market with style.
The Xiaomi 17 Pro, previously expected to be the successor to the Xiaomi 15 Pro, will instead take the place of the Xiaomi 15 as its compact successor. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max will be the new iteration of the Xiaomi 15 Pro, maintaining the top-tier specifications and features that users have come to expect.
The Xiaomi 17 itself will serve as the entry-level model in the series, lacking the Magic Back Screen but still featuring the core innovations that are characteristic of the 17 Pro lineup.
Top-Tier Hardware to Match the Design
As with every release from Xiaomi’s premium series, the Xiaomi 17 family will come packed with the latest and greatest in smartphone technology. All models in the series are expected to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, the latest processor from Qualcomm, ensuring cutting-edge performance and speed. Additionally, the cameras will feature Leica’s renowned optics, bringing an exceptional level of photography capability to the series.
Battery life will also see an improvement, with larger batteries being fitted into each device, allowing users to enjoy more screen time and powerful performance without the constant need for charging.
Final Thoughts
With its striking resemblance to the iPhone 17 series, the Xiaomi 17 Pro is undeniably a challenger in the high-end smartphone market. The addition of the Magic Back Screen is an intriguing and innovative feature that could help Xiaomi carve out a unique space for itself in an already saturated market.
The Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max are expected to be released later this month, and they will certainly be devices to watch as they compete directly against the latest iPhones. Whether or not Xiaomi can successfully replicate Apple’s success with this unique design remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Xiaomi is ready to make a statement in the premium smartphone space.
Staff Writers at Open Chronicle produce in-depth, field-informed reporting on defense, diplomacy, cultural transformation, and global affairs. Known for clarity, accuracy, and analytical depth, they connect breaking developments to broader historical and strategic contexts. In addition to frontline journalism, Staff Writers also contribute to the Open Chronicle Encyclopedia, crafting authoritative entries that preserve critical knowledge and enrich public understanding.