Xiaomi’s next flagship lineup may bring a more experimental design change than expected. A new post shared by blogger Smart Pikachu claims that a large magnetic extended screen is currently being evaluated, and the prototype is said to use a rectangular form factor. While the final commercial name of the Xiaomi 18 series has reportedly not yet been decided, the discussion around the leak suggests that Xiaomi may be exploring a new accessory-based secondary display concept for its future flagship phones.
New magnetic extended screen concept appears
According to the leak, Xiaomi is not the only company studying this idea, as more than one manufacturer is currently evaluating a large magnetic extended screen. The wording suggests that this may not be a traditional built-in rear display like the one used on the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. Instead, it could be a removable or attachable screen module designed to connect magnetically to the phone.
This would give Xiaomi more flexibility in product design. A magnetic display could allow users to add a secondary screen only when needed, rather than making the phone thicker and more complex by integrating a permanent rear screen into the body.
What this could mean for Xiaomi 18
The leak becomes more interesting because users in the comment section directly asked whether this refers to Xiaomi 18 Ultra or Xiaomi 18 Pro Max. Smart Pikachu replied that the name of “18” has not yet been decided, meaning Xiaomi may still be finalizing how the next flagship lineup will be branded.
Another user asked whether the accessory would require an extra charge, and the blogger replied with “higher flexibility.” This strongly suggests that Xiaomi may be evaluating the concept as an optional external module rather than a fixed part of every device.
Possible benefits of a magnetic secondary display
A magnetic extended display could open several practical use cases for Xiaomi’s flagship ecosystem:
- Rear camera selfies: Users could use the main Leica camera system while seeing themselves on the external display.
- Vlogging and short videos: Creators could monitor framing more easily when recording with the rear cameras.
- Gaming or controls: The second display could show tools, camera controls, or quick shortcuts.
- Modular design: Xiaomi could keep the base phone thinner while offering advanced features through an optional accessory.
- Better product flexibility: Different users could choose whether they need the extra display or not.
This could be especially important if Xiaomi does not launch a traditional Xiaomi 18 Ultra this year. In that case, the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max or another large-screen model may need to carry Xiaomi’s most experimental flagship features, including advanced camera hardware and possible modular display accessories.
Source: Smart Pikachu / Weibo
