3 Minutes
Overview
Xiaomi's next-generation flagships, the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro, are widely expected to arrive before the end of September and could be the first phones to ship with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. Recent leaks from China suggest both models will also receive a substantial front-camera upgrade aimed at improving selfie quality and video performance.
Selfie Camera Upgrade
Major specs
According to the rumor, both the Xiaomi 16 and 16 Pro will feature a 50 MP front-facing camera with autofocus, a wide field-of-view, and 4K60 video recording capability. Autofocus remains rare on many front cameras, so its inclusion could mark a significant leap in portrait sharpness and low-light performance for Xiaomi's selfie experience.
Rear Camera and Imaging Features
Xiaomi 16 vs 16 Pro
The base Xiaomi 16 is said to pack a 50 MP main rear sensor with a 1/1.3" size, while the 16 Pro reportedly uses the same sensor but adds "ultra high dynamic range" processing and a dedicated ToF (time-of-flight) sensor for improved depth mapping and AR applications. Previous rumors also point to a 50 MP ultrawide and a 50 MP telephoto lens on the lineup—possibly a periscope module on at least one variant.
Hardware, Battery and Display
Beyond cameras, earlier reports indicate the Xiaomi 16 could include a large 7,000 mAh battery and a flat ~6.3-inch OLED display. Combined with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset, these specs aim to balance flagship-level performance with extended endurance—an appealing mix for power users and mobile photographers alike.
Comparisons, Advantages and Use Cases
Compared with Xiaomi's current flagship models, the upgraded 50 MP autofocus selfie shooter and 4K60 capability would give creators and social users higher-resolution self-portraits and smoother front-facing video. The 16 Pro’s added HDR processing and ToF sensor could benefit videographers, AR developers, and anyone who prioritizes richer dynamic range and precise depth effects. For travel, vlogging, and remote conferencing, the combination of powerful chipset, long battery life, and advanced imaging makes the series a compelling option.
Market Relevance
If confirmed, Xiaomi's push to add high-resolution autofocus selfies and advanced rear imaging to a mass-market flagship will put pressure on competitors to improve front-camera hardware and video specs. Launching with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 would also position the Xiaomi 16 series as performance-oriented flagships that target both content creators and power users.
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