Xiaomi 16 Series Leak Reveals The Return of The Secondary Display

Xiaomi’s upcoming 16 series may revive its signature secondary rear display, blending nostalgia with modern flagship design. Emerging from fresh leaks by tipster Ishan Agarwal, high-resolution images of the Xiaomi 16 Pro Max reveal a redesigned camera island seemingly housing a secondary screen reminiscent of the 11 Ultra—yet refined to match 2025’s bezel-less aesthetics.

First seen on the Xiaomi 11 Ultra in 2021, the secondary rear display served as a viewfinder for selfies, a notifications panel, and battery indicator. Since its retirement, Xiaomi’s flagships have focused on cleaner backs but lost this unique interactive element. The new leaks hint that Xiaomi intends to balance minimalism with functional flair, packing dual screens into an “all-round” multimedia experience.

Leaked Design Details

Camera Island With Embedded Display

• Horizontal Module: Sharp, elongated housing spans nearly the device’s width, accommodating four camera sensors and a secondary screen.
• Secondary Display Area: Situated beside two vertically stacked primary sensors, likely a 1.5-inch AMOLED panel for live view and system info.
• OLED Panel Specs: Expected 450 nits peak brightness, 60 Hz refresh for straightforward notifications without draining battery.

Sensor Array and Flash

• Quad-Lens Setup: Includes a 50 MP main sensor with OIS, 48 MP ultrawide, 12 MP periscope telephoto (5× optical zoom), and a dedicated macro module.
• LED Flash & LiDAR-Style Sensor: Positioned beneath the screen panel, possibly serving autofocus or depth-mapping for AR features.

Functional Advantages

• Selfie Preview: Use the rear cameras for high-resolution self-portraits by previewing on the back screen.
• Notification Glance: Check time, weather, and incoming calls without waking the main display—ideal for battery savings.
• Camera Controls: Quick toggles for exposure, filters, and modes directly from the secondary screen.
• Live Widgets: Mini-apps like step counters or music controls accessible on the rear panel, unlocking dual-screen multitasking.

Technical Challenges & Innovations

• Battery Impact: Integrating two panels demands power optimization; expected adoption of LTPO for dynamic refresh scaling.
• Durability: Protective Gorilla Glass Victus 3 over both screens, plus improved sealing for IP68 water and dust resistance.
• Heat Management: Dual-stack chamber cooling extended to cover the rear module, preventing thermal throttling during prolonged use.

Comparison with Xiaomi 11 Ultra & Competitors

User Experience Scenarios

• Photography Enthusiasts: Frame shots more precisely using the rear preview, ensuring flawless composition in low light.
• Power Users: Glance at notifications or timer widgets without waking the main screen, prolonging daily battery life by up to 7%.
• Creative Multitaskers: Control music or follow live sports scores on the rear panel while browsing or gaming on the front display.

Preparing for the Launch

• Follow Xiaomi Teasers: Official teasers expected mid-September on Xiaomi’s Weibo and global social channels.
• Check Firmware Patents: Early MIUI 15.5 beta may hide hints of rear display software integrations.
• Accessory Ecosystem: Look for specialized cases with cutouts and protective overlays for the secondary screen.

For official teasers and announcements, visit Xiaomi’s Newsroom.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main function of the secondary display on the Xiaomi 16 Pro Max? 

It serves as a high-resolution viewfinder for selfies, a glanceable notification panel, and a quick-access control center for camera settings and mini-widgets.

2. How does Xiaomi manage battery and heat with two screens? 

The secondary 1.5″ AMOLED uses LTPO for dynamic refresh rate scaling to conserve power, while a dual-stack vapor chamber cooling system evenly dissipates heat across both displays.

3. When will Xiaomi officially unveil the 16 series with the secondary display? 

Expect teasers in mid-September on Xiaomi’s Weibo and global social channels, followed by a full launch event within weeks.

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