Xiaomi is preparing for its next flagship launch, but the base Xiaomi 18 might not get the top-tier processor many expected. A fresh rumor from China suggests the upcoming device will feature Qualcomm's upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, but not the Pro version. This marks a departure from the company's usual strategy of equipping its flagship phones with the absolute best silicon available.
Why the Standard Chip for Xiaomi 18?
The reason behind this decision appears to be cost. Sources indicate the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro carries a premium price tag that Xiaomi doesn't want to pass on to standard model buyers. This approach makes sense for a company that needs to balance cutting-edge features with competitive pricing in the crowded flagship market.
The standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 should still deliver excellent performance for most users. Qualcomm's next-generation chips promise significant improvements over the current generation, with better efficiency and faster processing speeds. However, power users and spec enthusiasts might feel disappointed by this decision.
Pro Models Will Get the Premium Treatment
There's good news for those who want the absolute best specs. The Xiaomi 18 Pro and Xiaomi 18 Pro Max are reportedly sticking with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. This creates a clearer distinction between the base and premium models, similar to what Apple and Samsung have done with their flagship lineups.
This tiered approach could actually benefit consumers. Buyers who don't need the absolute peak performance can save money with the standard Xiaomi 18, while those demanding maximum power can opt for the Pro variants.
Xiaomi 18
Launch Timeline and Camera Upgrades
The new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series is expected to debut in September, and Xiaomi plans to launch the 18 series right after. This continues the company's long-standing partnership with Qualcomm, which typically gives Xiaomi early access to new chips.
Previous reports suggest the Xiaomi 17 Pro's 50MP periscope telephoto camera with f/3.0 aperture could make its way to the base Xiaomi 18. This would be a welcome upgrade for the standard model, giving users access to flagship-level zoom capabilities without paying Pro prices.
What This Means for Buyers
If these rumors prove accurate, shoppers will need to consider their priorities carefully. The standard Xiaomi 18 will still offer strong performance and camera capabilities, but those wanting the absolute best processor will need to stretch their budget for the Pro models.
Xiaomi's decision to differentiate its lineup this way could help it compete more effectively across different price segments. The company has traditionally offered excellent value, and this strategy might preserve that reputation while still catering to premium buyers.
We'll learn more details as September approaches, when both Qualcomm and Xiaomi are expected to make their official announcements.
Source (in Chinese)