Xiaomi Fires Shots at Apple Ahead of iPhone 17 Pro Max Launch
In a bold pre-launch move, Xiaomi’s President, Lu Weibing, has released a video directly comparing the company’s upcoming Xiaomi 17 Pro Max with Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max, fueling anticipation ahead of the official debut of the Xiaomi 17 series later this month.
Xiaomi’s Head-to-Head with Apple
In the short clip, Lu showcased both devices side by side, aiming to dispel concerns that Xiaomi had merely copied Apple’s distinctive camera island design. He pointed out that, while similarities exist, Xiaomi’s approach incorporates a secondary display inside the camera module—a feature the company insists draws inspiration from the Mi 11 Ultra launched back in 2021.
Despite Xiaomi’s defense, the resemblance to Apple’s design has sparked heated debate online, with many noting that the devices look strikingly similar at first glance if the secondary display is ignored.
Naming Controversy and Launch Timeline
Adding to the buzz, Xiaomi recently announced that it would skip the “Xiaomi 16” naming convention and jump straight to the Xiaomi 17 lineup, which includes the standard 17, the 17 Pro, and the 17 Pro Max. While the company denies mimicking Apple’s naming strategy, the decision has raised eyebrows, especially with the introduction of a “Pro Max” variant.
Lu confirmed that the Xiaomi 17 series will launch in China before October 1, powered by the upcoming Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, set to be unveiled on September 23. Xiaomi reportedly secured an extended exclusivity window for the processor, meaning rival brands are unlikely to launch competing devices with the same chip until well into October.
Pricing and Key Features
According to Xiaomi, the 17 Pro will be priced between $700 and $850, while the 17 Pro Max will range from $850 to $1,000 in China. Global pricing, if the phones are released internationally, is expected to be significantly higher.
One of the standout features is the rear-mounted secondary display, which can be used for answering calls, controlling music, checking travel details and timers, and even serving as a full-fledged camera viewfinder—allowing high-quality selfies with the rear cameras. Lu likened this innovation to the cover displays found on foldable “flip” phones.