Xiaomi’s latest launch event for its new 17 series smartphones felt less like a product unveiling and more like a direct challenge to Apple. Critics might call it imitation, while fans could argue it’s Xiaomi trying to outdo Cupertino at its own game. Either way, the inspiration was clear — though the devices themselves still bring something distinct to the table, especially with the addition of a rear-facing second screen on the two new Pro models.
Let’s talk naming first. Xiaomi is jumping from the 15 series — which wrapped up with the 15T models — straight to the 17. Skipping numbers isn’t unusual among Chinese brands due to cultural superstitions (OnePlus, for instance, is skipping 14 entirely this year), but Xiaomi’s move is different. The company has openly admitted it’s skipping 16 purely to keep pace with Apple’s iPhone numbering.
Then there’s the lineup: Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max. Sound familiar? It’s no coincidence. For the first time, Xiaomi is introducing two Pro models in different sizes, mirroring Apple’s tiered approach to flagships.
If that wasn’t enough, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun made frequent references to Apple during the launch event in Beijing. As he walked through the specs, he repeatedly highlighted how Xiaomi’s new phones beat the iPhone on battery life, performance, camera capabilities, and more — a clear sign that this wasn’t just about launching phones, but about making a statement.
With this bold, Apple-inspired approach, Xiaomi isn’t just aiming to impress — it’s aiming to compete directly at the top.
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