Tech Desk: Xiaomi has just pulled back the curtain on its 18 Pro series phones, and while initially exclusive to China, these devices are set to make a global splash later this year. Headlining the impressive specs is Qualcomm’s brand-new Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 mobile chipset, making the Xiaomi 18 Pro series among the first to feature this cutting-edge processor, with the Pro Max variant boasting an even higher-end version.

Perhaps the most intriguing innovation is the integration of a privacy-focused screen, reminiscent of technology seen in Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra. This feature significantly limits off-angle viewing, safeguarding your sensitive information from prying eyes. Xiaomi’s implementation goes a step further, offering granular control. Users can enable privacy mode for specific apps, trigger it based on location, or even have the front-facing camera detect potential snoops and suggest activation.

Beyond privacy, both the 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max impress with LTPO AMOLED displays, offering 2K resolution, a dynamic 1-120Hz refresh rate, and a stunning 4,000 nits peak brightness. The phones also retain the functional rear displays from previous models and pack a robust camera array: a 200MP main lens, a 200MP telephoto, and a 50MP ultrawide. With larger batteries (7,000mAh for Pro, 8,500mAh for Pro Max) and rapid 100W wired charging, the Xiaomi 18 Pro series promises a premium user experience at competitive prices, starting from 5,999 yuan ($894).