Xiaomi 17T series likely to launch as early as May with at least 6500mAh battery
While the Xiaomi 17 is still awaiting its European debut, the first details about the 17T series are already leaking out. While Xiaomi's T series phones are usually announced six months after the main series, this year's models may arrive earlier than expected.
Xiaomi typically releases its flagship series in the Chinese market at the end of the year. These premium devices feature high-end specifications and Qualcomm's most powerful Snapdragon processors. They usually reach Europe at the beginning of the following year.
The T-series follows six months later. These models typically run on MediaTek Dimensity chips, featuring slightly more modest specifications and a more affordable price point. While Europe still awaits the Xiaomi 17, the first leaks regarding the 17T and 17T Pro have already emerged.
Shift in release cycle
According to a recent post on Weibo, the Xiaomi 17T (model number 2602DPT53G/P12A) and Xiaomi 17T Pro (model number 2602EPTC0G/P12U) will launch four months earlier than the 15T and 15T Pro. Since those debuted in September 2025, the 17T series could arrive as early as May. Xiaomi is skipping the number 16 to synchronize its numbering with iPhone generations.
| Model | Announced |
| Xiaomi 17T | May 2026 (expected) |
| Xiaomi 15T | September 2025 |
| Xiaomi 14T | September 2024 |
| Xiaomi 13T | September 2023 |
| Xiaomi 12T | October 2022 |
| Xiaomi 11T | September 2021 |
This earlier launch may be a response to the expected Apple iPhone 17e, which is rumored for a Q1 2026 release. Launching the 17T early gives the device a better chance against Apple's lower-cost alternative and allows Xiaomi to anticipate the arrival of Samsung's Galaxy S26 FE, though no concrete rumors for the latter exist yet.
Xiaomi is reportedly opting for Dimensity 8500 and 9500 chipsets. Performance should rival the more expensive Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, allowing Xiaomi to compete aggressively on price without sacrificing processing power.
Focus on high-capacity silicon-carbon batteries
Sources expect cameras and displays to remain largely similar to the previous generation, featuring a 50+50+12MP triple camera system and 6.83-inch screens. However, Xiaomi plans to improve battery capacity, which currently sits at 5500 mAh. By switching from standard lithium batteries to updated silicon-carbon technology, higher energy density can be achieved within the same dimensions. Earlier rumors suggested that 17T models could exceed 6500 mAh without increasing device thickness.
Whether Xiaomi intends to release both models in Europe remains to be seen. The Xiaomi 17 Pro officially skipped the European market but is available via import. It is unclear if the 17T Pro will meet a similar fate.
