After weeks of rumors and speculations, the first concrete pieces of the puzzle regarding the next generation of Xiaomi flagships are starting to arrive; in particular, Xiaomi 16 is shown for the first time in an exclusive CAD render, which reveals its lines, proportions, and some key features. In addition, there are some clues about the higher models of the same series, particularly Xiaomi 16S Pro and Xiaomi 16 Ultra.
Minimal and compact design, this is what the Xiaomi 16 could be like
The shared technical image, devoid of textures, logos, or colours as is traditional for CAD, shows a compact device, with slightly rounded edges and a flat panel, a choice increasingly appreciated by users who prioritise usability and a secure grip.
On the back, there is a slightly protruding rectangular photographic module. This module houses three cameras arranged in a triangle flanked by an LED flash and an additional sensor, most likely dedicated to laser focus or other support functions.
At the bottom, you can see a USB-C port, a single speaker, and the SIM tray, while on the left side, there are the volume control and power buttons. This is a sober but refined design, with overall dimensions that suggest a display between 6.32 inches and 6.36 inches. It is perfect for those looking for a pocket-sized flagship without sacrificing power or multimedia.

Regarding power, the Xiaomi 16 will be one of the first smartphones to mount the new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 SoC, expected to debut during the Snapdragon Summit 2025, the dates of which were recently made official.
Qualcomm and Xiaomi have announced a new multi-year collaboration agreement, a sign that their strategic partnership is far from over.
The new chip promises a 30% boost to the GPU and 25% to the CPU compared to its predecessor, making it a theoretically ideal choice for gaming, advanced AI and intensive multitasking; CEO Lei Jun underlined the central role of Qualcomm in the development of Xiaomi’s premium line, but left room for another critical novelty: while Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro will rely on the Snapdragon processor just mentioned, the Chinese company has confirmed that the future Xiaomi 16S Pro and 16 Ultra could be equipped with Xring, the proprietary SoC already being implemented on the new Xiaomi 15S Pro.

Xring is a targeted and strategic choice. It will be used only on selected models, indicating that it is a solution designed to enhance super-premium products until production capacity can sustain larger volumes.
Nothing new on the alleged technical specifications of Xiaomi 16, previous rumors outline a device ready to challenge the big names in the sector:
The Xiaomi 16 is scheduled to launch in September 2025 in China, with a global unveiling expected at Mobile World Congress 2026. Alongside the base model, there will also be the Xiaomi 16 Pro (with a 6.85-inch display) and the top-of-the-range Xiaomi 16 Ultra, scheduled for 2026. According to initial rumors, the price of the Pro model could exceed $700.
Ultimately, the smartphone’s CAD render gives us a concrete taste of the Chinese parent company’s design and approach for its new flagship line: compact, powerful, elegant, and ready to exploit the best of Qualcomm. Users looking for a handy but uncompromising top-of-the-range have every reason to start the countdown.