With Qualcomm's recent launch of the Snapdragon 8 Elite, smartphone enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as multiple companies prepare to showcase their flagship devices powered by this cutting-edge chipset. Among them, Xiaomi has unveiled two key models from its new flagship series: the standard Xiaomi 15 and the more advanced Xiaomi 15 Pro, while fans eagerly await the Ultra version expected to enter the scene in a few months.

Both models share a suite of impressive features, predominantly the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset which promises enhanced performance, and notably a larger battery compared to the previous 14-series due to the innovative Silicon-Carbon technology.

Diving deeper into specifications, the Xiaomi 15 Pro impresses with its 120mm periscope telephoto lens—capable of 5x optical zoom—now upgraded from the previous generation’s 75mm. It also houses a robust 6,100mAh battery, a slight increment from its predecessor, along with wired charging capabilities of 90W—down from 120W—though this should have minimal real-world impact. Wireless charging remains at a stable 50W.

Xiaomi has also made strides in display technology, utilizing its own fortified glass on the screen, allowing for an immersive experience with 8K video recording now possible at 30fps, a step up from the prior 24fps. Additionally, the devices have transitioned from optical to ultrasonic fingerprint readers, improving user security and convenience.

On the standard model, the Xiaomi 15 boasts an impressive 5,400mAh battery—a significant increase of 790mAh over its predecessor—packed into a sleek 6.36-inch display. This positions it as one of the most compact Android flagships currently available, rivaling the Pixel 9 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro in size. However, it does fall short in telephoto capabilities, equipped with only a 60mm lens.

Pricing reflects the premium nature of these devices, with the Xiaomi 15 (12/256GB) retailing at CNY 4,500 ($630), while the Xiaomi 15 Pro (12/256GB) commands CNY 5,300 ($745). Both models are anticipated to launch globally, although the exact timing and pricing details remain under wraps.

In a fiercely competitive market, the Xiaomi models will be vying for attention against other Snapdragon 8 Elite contenders and those utilizing MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400, such as the Vivo X200 Pro series. For instance, the X200 Pro offers a high-resolution 200MP telephoto lens and a smaller form factor, while the Vivo X200 Pro Mini features a triple 50MP setup.

Oppo is also in the mix with its Find X8 and X8 Pro models, which opted for the Dimensity 9400. The X8 Pro impresses with a quad-camera setup and robust battery life, while the standard Find X8 remains competitive with solid specifications at a lower price point.

As we look forward to the imminent launches of additional heavyweights like the OnePlus 13, Realme GT7 Pro, and iQOO 13—all boasting the new Snapdragon 8 Elite—the smartphone landscape is brimming with excitement.

As a consumer, will you take the plunge on the Xiaomi 15 Pro, or are you eyeing the Ultra version? Perhaps you’re leaning towards other brands, or still weighing your options? With better cameras, larger batteries, and rapid charging capabilities on paper compared to competitors like the Galaxy S24 and Pixel 9 Pro, the Xiaomi 15 series certainly makes a compelling case.