Xiaomi 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 17 Pro Max: Design, Features, Price and Release Date Revealed

Xiaomi is set to launch the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max in China before October 1. The company’s president Lu Weibing compared it directly with Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max in a recent Weibo post. The move sparked debate over design choices, chipset exclusivity, and Xiaomi’s bold push into the premium segment.

The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max will debut as the first smartphone with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. According to Reuters, Qualcomm is set to unveil the chip on September 23, and Xiaomi has secured early rights for the hardware. This exclusivity means rival Android brands will not release competing flagships until October.

Xiaomi 17 Pro Max Design and Features

The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max introduces a large rear camera island with a secondary display. Lu Weibing argued that the design is inspired by Xiaomi’s 2021 Mi 11 Ultra, not Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max. However, comparisons are unavoidable as both devices carry a “Pro Max” label and similar rear layouts.

The rear screen on the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max can be used for call handling, music control, and even as a camera viewfinder for selfies. Xiaomi positions it as a feature rivaling cover displays on foldable flip phones. This unique addition sets the phone apart in a crowded market.

Xiaomi confirmed prices between CNY 6,000 and CNY 7,000 ($850–$1,000) for the Pro Max in China. The smaller Xiaomi 17 Pro will cost CNY 5,000–CNY 6,000 ($700–$850). If launched globally, higher prices should be expected due to taxes and import costs.

Performance, Pricing, and Market Impact

With the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, Xiaomi 17 Pro Max promises cutting-edge performance. The processor is expected to bring faster AI computing, enhanced gaming, and longer battery life. Xiaomi has positioned itself as a premium Android alternative to Apple, Samsung, and Google.

The price places the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max head-to-head with iPhone 17 Pro Max in the Chinese market. By adopting the “Pro Max” branding, Xiaomi signals its intent to compete directly with Apple’s flagship lineup. This raises questions about consumer perception, brand identity, and value for money.

Industry watchers believe the extended chip exclusivity could give Xiaomi a temporary lead in sales. Consumers seeking the latest Qualcomm-powered flagship will have no choice but to turn to Xiaomi during the launch window. This strategy could boost Xiaomi’s brand presence at home and abroad.

The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is shaping up as a serious challenger to Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max. With exclusive access to Qualcomm’s most powerful chip and bold design choices, Xiaomi is betting big on the premium market.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max release date?

The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max will launch in China before October 1, 2025. Global release details are not yet confirmed.

Q2: What chipset powers the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max?

The phone runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. Xiaomi has exclusive early rights to the chip.

Q3: How much will the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max cost?

The price in China will range from CNY 6,000 to CNY 7,000 ($850–$1,000). Global prices may be higher.

Q4: What is special about the rear screen?

The rear display can handle calls, music, travel info, and selfies using the main cameras. It works like a cover screen on flip phones.

Q5: Is the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max competing with the iPhone 17 Pro Max?

Yes. Xiaomi is directly comparing it to Apple’s flagship, especially in design, performance, and price.