Xiaomi 18 Pro: Dual Screen and Privacy Sensor That Challenge Samsung

Xiaomi is once again shaking up the premium phone market by introducing the Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max, which feature an additional OLED screen on the rear panel. The move underscores the Chinese company's strategy to challenge Samsung and Apple's dominance in the dual-screen device segment, even though the devices are not fully foldable.

Both models are successors to the Xiaomi 17 Pro, which previously was available only in China. Now, Xiaomi plans to release them globally next year, although exact details on market coverage remain unclear. According to observations at Snapdragon Summit 2026, the devices have a 2.66-inch rear screen on the Pro and a 2.86-inch 120Hz screen on the Pro Max. The mini screen can display widgets, wallpapers, media controls, and serve as a viewfinder for selfies using the rear camera.

Interestingly, Xiaomi introduced Smart Privacy Display, a technology capable of limiting the screen's viewing angle to 60 degrees to prevent snooping. The feature is similar to the Privacy Display on the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, but Xiaomi claims it can be applied to apps in split-screen mode, specific locations, and specific notifications. This innovation could be a differentiator in the market, especially for users who prioritize privacy.

"Smart Privacy Display can limit the viewing angle without disturbing the entire screen, and can be applied to specific apps," a Xiaomi representative said during a hands-on session.

In terms of specifications, the Xiaomi 18 Pro and Pro Max carry three rear lenses: a 200MP main, a 200MP telephoto, and a 50MP ultra-wide. The 200MP main camera can be activated with a wave gesture or the volume button for selfies. Their weight and dimensions are said to be very similar to the iPhone 18 Pro, indicating Xiaomi's strategy to attract Apple users. Previously, the Xiaomi 18 Fold was also launched a day before the iPhone Duo, showing a pattern of aggressive competition.

However, a global launch remains a question mark. The Xiaomi 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max never entered the international market, while the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is already available in the UK and Europe. Most likely, at least one of the 18 Pro models will be available in those regions, but a launch in the US or Australia seems less likely. Prices in China are set at ¥5,999 (around $900) for the Pro and ¥6,999 (around $1,050) for the Pro Max, but prices outside China are predicted to be higher.

For Indonesian consumers, the presence of the Xiaomi 18 Pro in the global market could be an attractive alternative in the flagship segment. However, it remains to be seen whether Xiaomi will bring this device to Indonesia given their regional strategy, which tends to be selective. If it enters, the phone could compete closely with the Samsung Galaxy S系列 and iPhone, especially with its advanced privacy features and unique dual screen. Indonesia's price-sensitive market may pose its own challenge, but enthusiasm for Xiaomi's innovations is quite high.

Looking ahead, the question is whether Xiaomi is truly serious about penetrating the global market or just wants to test reactions. With an increasingly tight competitive landscape, Xiaomi's move could trigger a dual-screen and privacy technology war among phone makers. If successful, it is not impossible that Samsung and Apple will accelerate similar innovations. Either way, consumers will benefit from this competition.