This small Android flagship could outpace the Galaxy S26 and Pixel 10 with a 200MP telephoto

Source: Android Authority

TL;DR

• Xiaomi 18 could feature a 200 MP periscope telephoto across all models, not just the Ultra.
• This would be a step up from the 50 MP seen currently on the Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max.
• However, it could skip the more expensive Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 “Pro” chipset.

Background

The earlier‑than‑usual launch of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 last year set a new cadence for Android flagship refresh cycles. Brands such as Xiaomi and OnePlus began unveiling their flagship phones in China months ahead of their typical timeline. While Samsung has resisted this shift—its Galaxy S26 launch is later than the previous year—other manufacturers are already preparing for launches due later in 2026.

Camera Leak

According to leaker Digital Chat Station via Weibo, an upcoming phone series is expected to feature 200 MP periscope telephoto cameras across all models. Although the leaker does not name the brand, the phrasing and lack of their usual brand‑specific emoji strongly suggest the leak refers to the next Xiaomi flagship, likely the Xiaomi 18.

If true, this would be a major upgrade from the 50 MP telephoto found on the Xiaomi 17 series (only the Ultra variant currently has a 200 MP telephoto). The base Xiaomi 17 uses a linear telephoto lens, not a periscope. Switching to a periscope on the base model would extend the focal range and enable more natural background blur.

The leaker has not disclosed the exact sensor or aperture for the 200 MP telephoto.

While 200 MP periscopes have become common among Chinese manufacturers, they have typically been limited to Pro or Ultra variants. Bringing this capability to the base model could push other brands to follow suit and may even pressure Samsung to upgrade the telephoto lens on the upcoming Galaxy S27, especially now that the S26 has entered production see details.

Display and Chipset

The same leaker also hinted that the Xiaomi 18’s display could be slightly larger than the current 6.3‑inch panel, reinforcing the assumption that the rumors pertain to the Xiaomi 18.

Additionally, an older post from the leaker suggested that Xiaomi (and possibly other brands) might skip the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 “Pro” chipset and stick with the regular, non‑Pro variant read more.

Outlook

The launch is still several months away, and specifications could evolve as Xiaomi finalizes its internal analyses. Keep an eye on further leaks for updates on the Xiaomi 18 series.