Category: News

iPhone 18 Pro received 172 points from DxOMark and ranks second in the world, just behind the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra with 175. The iPhone 17 Pro has 168 points and occupies the fifth position. A four-point difference between generations — not much on paper, but three spots in the ranking.

However, the teardown of the new model reveals something that shouldn’t explain this difference: two of the three rear sensors are exactly the same as last year.

Where this data comes from: the component data comes from publications on Weibo.

What’s inside the camera

The rear cameras are the same in the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max — the teardown author describes them once, for both phones at the same time. Three lenses mounted in a common metal frame, each 48 Mpix:

For the ultrawide, the teardown does not mention anything about stabilization — which means that it is unknown, not that it does not exist.

Controversy: two of the three cameras are the same as last year

The author placed the cameras from both generations side by side and described them with the same set of data. In pairs, because the Pro and Pro Max from the same year have the same set:

Ultra-wide and periscope are literally the same sensors. The same resolution, the same size, the same brightness, and the same focal length equivalent.

The main camera has changed its designation from IMX903 to IMX905, but the teardown indicates the same sensor size for both, 1/1.3 inches, and the same resolution. Industry sources provide a more precise value of 1/1.28 inches for the seventeen, so there may be a slight difference — the teardown author rounds both the same.

The only real difference is the aperture of the main camera.

Six moving blades

In place of the fixed aperture f/1.78, Apple has introduced a variable aperture with a range of f/1.48–4.0. DxOMark describes it as a true aperture with six moving blades that opens and closes like in a camera — the photos of the mechanism itself are not visible, as the author did not disassemble the lens. There is only a dry label next to the lens: f/1.48–4.0.

This is not a software trick, but a real mechanism that allows less or more light to pass through. DxOMark attributes the improvement in score to this aperture.

What the range provides:

• f/1.48 at night — an opening wider than f/1.78 in its predecessor lets in more light; the score in low light increased from 143 to 150 points
• f/4.0 during the day — stopping down increases depth of field, meaning it allows for maintaining sharpness over a larger portion of the frame
• range instead of a single value for everything — although it is unclear whether the aperture closes smoothly or in steps

DxOMark Results: Where the Difference is Visible

The most significant gains were in low light photos (+7) and portraits (+6), while zoom saw the least improvement (+3), and this is the only camera whose aperture change does not apply at all. DxOMark does not specify where each of these changes came from, so formally it is a coincidence. However, it is exceptionally consistent.

What DxOMark Did Not Praise

DxOMark pointed out four issues: color inaccuracies and white balance jumps, weaker zoom at long distances, flares in certain conditions, and brightness differences between photo previews and video. The second point is not surprising, as the periscope remained the same.

How Much Do These Points Really Matter

Before you consider 172 versus 168 as a decisive factor, it’s worth knowing where that number comes from and what it does not show.

DxOMark makes money from the manufacturers it tests. It sells them the DxO Analyzer software and provides consulting for camera tuning, and then evaluates the finished phones. In the industry, this is referred to as the “pay to win” problem: those who use DxO’s paid tools perform better in the rankings than those who do not. No one claims that results are bought. However, it’s hard to maintain independence when the same company first advises and then evaluates.

Each subsequent generation receives a higher score. This has been evident in the rankings for years, and it’s hard not to ask whether the points measure real progress or if they grow along with the methodology. Therefore, results from different years cannot be directly compared.

One number hides all compromises. The overall score is derived from several sub-scores of varying weights, and the media only quotes this score. This is exemplified in our case: the eighteen wins in low-light photography and portraits, while in zoom it practically stands still. If you mainly shoot with a telephoto lens, this difference does not concern you.

A loud dispute over independence also occurred. When Xiaomi did not send a 12S Ultra model for testing, DxOMark purchased a unit on its own and published a review despite the lack of cooperation from the manufacturer.

The practical conclusion is this: DxOMark points serve as a guideline for the direction of changes, and here they align with what is seen in the teardown. However, they do not answer the question of whether it is worth replacing the phone. That will only be answered by photos taken in the conditions in which you photograph daily.

Face ID and LiDAR received more than the camera

The most changes occurred not in the cameras, but next to them.

The entire Face ID setup in the eighteenth model is clearly longer — a wide ribbon with a metal reinforcing plate has been added. In the seventeenth model, everything was tightly packed next to each other; here, the sensor has been moved a considerable distance away from the camera.

The infrared camera sensor is larger. The author outlined in the photo that part of both sensors that actually collects light — in the eighteenth model, it is larger and more square.

The author removed the casing from the dot projector and photographed the bare circuits in magnification. Here too, the redesign is visible: both circuits — the control one and the emitting one — are larger, there are more thin wires connecting them, and they come from two sides instead of one, while the light points are more densely packed.

LiDAR has also increased in size. In the iPhone 18, it is simply larger, and its transmitter has a larger surface area. The tape markings are 06061-05 in the 18 Pro Max and 06060-04 in the 18 Pro, compared to 5561-04 and 5371-03 the previous year.

None of these changes are measured by DxOMark, as they evaluate cameras for photos, not facial recognition. How the redesign of the dot projector translates into the speed and effectiveness of Face ID remains unresolved by the teardown.

Front camera without revolution

The selfie is taken by Sony IMX914, 18 MP, f/1.9, equivalent to 20 mm — the same specifications for the 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. The same sensor is attributed to the iPhone 17 by industry services. The comparative photo from the teardown is not labeled, it only shows that both sensors have similarly sized light-collecting parts and differ in the shape of the casing.

What it means when buying protection

The camera island on the eighteen stretches across the entire width of the back. It houses three lenses arranged in a triangle, a flash, a microphone, and a sensor window.

In the photos of the cases of both generations, it can be seen that the rings around the lenses on the eighteen are wider and differently arranged than on the seventeen. Someone took the effort to measure it with calipers — on the Pro Max models:

The island has grown by 0.22 mm, and together with the protruding lenses by almost half a millimeter. The measurement was taken on larger models, but the back construction is the same in both variants. It sounds like nothing, but the camera cover is a precisely fitted element — half a millimeter is the difference between a cover that sits evenly and one that wobbles on the edge or doesn’t fit at all. In our store, the covers for both generations are separate products, and that’s why.

A small tip when choosing, which is universal: covers that hold onto the ring around the lens are easier to remove than those that stick directly to the glass — there’s less risk of scratching something.

And one caveat: the flares mentioned by DxOMark are a feature of the camera itself, tested without any additions. The laboratory did not check the covers and does not comment on how they affect the photos.

If you have the seventeen, the proper categories are camera glass for iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max — these are separate shelves. For the eighteen, the suitable ones are camera covers for iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max.

You can find the full selection of accessories in the categories iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro.

Summary

In the iPhone 18 Pro better results do not come from changing sensors. The ultra-wide and periscope remain the same, the main camera has changed its designation with the same size and resolution, and the only real change is the aperture f/1.48–4.0. The new model debuts in second place in the ranking, while its predecessor is currently in fifth.

However, the most changes have occurred where DxOMark does not look at all: in Face ID and LiDAR.

And the points themselves should be taken with a grain of salt. They indicate the direction of changes, but they cannot replace viewing photos from the phone you actually use.

FAQ — frequently asked questions

What camera does the iPhone 18 Pro have?

Three sensors of 48 Mpix: ultra-wide Sony IMX972 (f/2.2, equivalent 13 mm), main Sony IMX905 (1/1.3″, variable aperture f/1.48–4.0, equivalent 24 mm) and periscope Sony IMX973 (f/2.8, equivalent 100 mm). The front one is Sony IMX914 18 Mpix f/1.9. The same set goes to the 18 Pro Max.

How many DxOMark points does the iPhone 18 Pro have?

172 points and second place in the global ranking, behind the Huawei Pura 80 Ultra with 175. The iPhone 17 Pro has 168 points and occupies fifth place. It is worth remembering that DxOMark sells tools and consulting to manufacturers for tuning cameras, so the ranking is sometimes criticized for lack of independence.

What is the difference between the iPhone 18 Pro camera and the 17 Pro?

Actually one: the main camera has a variable aperture of f/1.48–4.0 instead of a fixed f/1.78. The main sensor has changed its designation (IMX903 → IMX905) while maintaining the same size and resolution, and the ultra-wide and periscope sensors are the same as in the previous generation.

What is a variable aperture in the iPhone 18 Pro?

A mechanism that changes the size of the lens opening from f/1.48 to f/4.0 — DxOMark describes it as a physical aperture made of six movable blades, like in a camera. A wider opening lets in more light after dark, while a smaller one provides greater depth of field.

Does the camera glass from the iPhone 17 Pro fit the 18 Pro?

No. The camera island on the eighteen is thicker — 11.58 mm compared to 11.36 mm, and counting the protruding lenses 13.68 compared to 13.20 mm. Additionally, the rings around the lenses are wider and differently spaced. A glass dedicated to the new model will be needed.

Can you trust DxOMark results?

With reservations. DxOMark sells software and consulting to manufacturers for tuning cameras, and then evaluates the finished phones — the industry accuses it of lacking independence. Moreover, each subsequent generation receives a higher score, making it difficult to directly compare results from different years, and a single number hides all compromises between categories. Treat the points as a guideline for the direction of changes rather than a verdict.

Does the iPhone 18 Pro have better zoom than the 17 Pro?

Minimally: 138 points versus 135. The periscope uses the same Sony IMX973 sensor with the same f/2.8 aperture, so there has been no hardware change, and the reasons for these three points are not explained by DxOMark. The lab pointed out the weaker zoom at long distances.

Is Face ID in the iPhone 18 Pro better?

Hardware-wise, yes: the infrared camera sensor collects light from a larger area, and the dot projector has been redesigned — its components are larger, and the dots are more densely packed. However, the teardown does not specify how this translates to speed or effectiveness of recognition.

Xiaomi will showcase the 18 Pro series on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM Chinese time — which is 1:00 PM in Poland. The date appears on the poster for the autumn conference that has surfaced online, and the entire campaign revolves around one thing: a touch screen built into the camera island.

The campaign’s slogan is “one more side, thousands of possibilities.”

Note: this article was created before the presentation. It is based on promotional materials that leaked online before the premiere — they appear to be prepared by Xiaomi, but the manufacturer has not officially published them. Treat all numbers as highly probable, unconfirmed. Certainty will come on September 23.

Screen on the back, so what’s really going on here

The camera island is a wide, horizontal rectangle with rounded corners. On the left side sit two large lenses stacked one above the other, while the entire right side is occupied by a colorful, touch display. Below the island, already outside of it, there is also an elongated module with a third eye and a flash LED.

Xiaomi calls this feature application cards on the rear screen. It is not just a decorative element showing the time — although Xiaomi itself notes in fine print that the content of the cards in the promotional graphics is generated by AI, and the images are for illustration purposes. In the shown graphics, the screen supports among others:

• water intake counter with a “+1 glass” button,
• egg timer with three modes: 6 minutes for runny yolk, 8 for medium, 10 for hard,
• caffeine calculator — Americano 225 mg, Flat White 195 mg, Latte 150 mg,
• pomodoro timer with a 25-minute session, with a pause controlled directly from the back of the phone,
• countdown to the concert, food order card, and exercise set lottery.

The platform is open to external partners: the materials show eight cards, including Starbucks, Haidilao, Meituan, Keep, and Damai, as well as cards prepared by internet creators.

The second application is simpler and probably more important in everyday life: the screen acts as a preview for selfies taken with the main camera, with video, photo, and portrait modes. Xiaomi notes in fine print that the figure in the demo selfie and the content of the water counter card were generated by AI, and the graphics are for illustration purposes.

Everything can appear on the rear screen

A separate branch of the campaign — under the slogan “everything can appear on the rear screen” — showcases the screen as a place for an animated mascot. The set of licenses makes an impression in China: characters from “Battle Through the Heavens,” exhibits from the Chinese television program “National Treasures” (a figure of an officer from the Qin dynasty, a bronze mask from Sanxingdui, ceramic figurines from the Northern Wei period), and from Western classics Van Gogh and “Girl with a Pearl Earring.”

You can also upload a photo of your pet — the system recognizes its features and builds an animated character from them.

AI attaches someone to the photo who wasn’t with you

The second feature that has its own teaser is AI group photo. The slogan is “take a group photo with everything you dream of”. In the video, a photo of a person and a character from a game merge into one shot, where both pose side by side.

A screen that your neighbor in the subway won’t read

The day after the specification poster, Xiaomi showcased another feature of the series: privacy screen. It doesn’t work like privacy films that darken the entire display. Here, selected rectangles turn black, while the rest of the screen remains bright and readable.

The video demonstrates this in five situations. In the subway, a notification comes in, and a black rectangle appears in its place, while the clock, widgets, and wallpaper remain visible. In a café, the coffee ordering app is fully readable, while the chat window hovering above it is black. In the office, with a split screen, one half is darkened, while the other, with notes, is completely normal. On the lock screen, one notification from the list disappears under a black bar, while the neighboring ones remain.

Protection is set separately for each application, and it can be activated in two ways. On the left edge of the phone, there is an orange AI button that can be assigned to turn on protection with a single click. The second way is a voice command to the Xiao AI assistant, and it’s not a one-time command, but conditional: “when arriving at the office, turn on protection in messengers,” “when returning home, turn off all protection.” The fine print states that such rules are configured in the expert mode of the assistant.

Xiaomi also described how it works, and it is neither an overlay nor a software mode. In the panel, there are two types of pixels — privacy and regular — arranged alternately in a 1:1 ratio. They differ in the angle at which they emit light: the regular one spreads it in a wide cone to the sides, while the privacy one emits it in a narrow column straight ahead. On a daily basis, all of them light up, and when protection is activated — only the privacy ones.

Xiaomi also mentions privacy films: they work like micro-blinds, thus reducing brightness, distorting the image, and straining the eyes. The manufacturer claims that with them, quality does not drop because each pixel retains a complete set of RGB subpixels regardless of the mode. It sounds reasonable, but it is still a manufacturer’s declaration, not a measurement.

The same principle is applied by Galaxy S26 Ultra. Samsung calls it Flex Magic Pixel and also divides pixels into two types, narrow and wide. The difference lies in what each manufacturer has published: Samsung provided measured angles — at 45 degrees, side brightness drops to 3.5 percent, at 60 below one. Xiaomi did not provide a single degree, only showing images of the screen viewed from the side.

Specifications from the leaked poster

A poster titled “upgrade in every field” is circulating online, attributed to Xiaomi. Each point is accompanied by the note “both sizes” — the parameters refer to both models, which the poster names. “both sizes”: Xiaomi has been talking about two models from the beginning and names them on the same poster.

The poster calls this set of cameras the most powerful Leica system in the numerical series of Xiaomi, and the batteries — the longest-lasting in this series. Regarding the display, it mentions the new M11 emission system and a new green emission material: higher brightness with lower energy consumption.

A separate graphic adds the screen parameters. The peak brightness is said to reach 4000 nits, and the new green emission material is expected to increase the brightness efficiency by 20 percent compared to the previous generation. Additionally, there is the BT.2020 color gamut and a pixel arrangement where each pixel has a complete set of RGB subpixels — Xiaomi compares it to the classic Pentile and claims that the sharpness matches 2K displays while consuming less power than 1.5K. The manufacturer does not specify the resolution in pixels.

A separate graphic clarifies a matter that the specification poster was silent about: each model gets a different layout. The Xiaomi 18 Pro features the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6. The Xiaomi 18 Pro Max — a stronger Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 (SM8975). It’s worth knowing this, as earlier leaks referred to this chip as “Gen 6 Pro” — that was a placeholder name that Qualcomm ultimately replaced with the Extreme designation. An entry in the Geekbench database from September 16 showed a unit with 16 GB of memory, two cores clocked up to 5.01 GHz, and HyperOS 4 on Android 17.

Frame narrower by 0.19 mm

One of the materials shows the front and provides a detail that can be compared to its predecessor: the frame around the screen has slimmed down from 1.18 mm in the Xiaomi 17 series to 0.99 mm — and this applies to the entire series, not just the larger model. The radius of the screen corners has also increased.

Camera: Leica and a range of 17–75 mm

The body features the engraving LEICA VARIO-SUMMILUX 1:1.67-2.4/17-75 ASPH. We read it from the full-resolution render, and it is confirmed by four independent materials. This indicates an aperture of f/1.67–2.4 and a focal length range of 17–75 mm.

Here arises a discrepancy worth noting. The specification poster lists two cameras — the main and periscope, both 200 Mpix. Meanwhile, on the back, three lenses are visible: two in the island and one in the module below it. Xiaomi has not yet described this third one, and the range starting from 17 mm suggests that there is also a wide-angle lens included. Until Wednesday, this remains an open question.

Four colors

The series comes in four finishes: navy blue, white, graphite, and pink. Pink is the most unexpected here — it did not appear in earlier materials.

The prettiest detail: the wallpaper on the rear screen is matched to the color of the casing — blue with navy, green with white, orange with graphite, and pink with pink. In some renders, it looks like a static print, but it’s the same screen in wallpaper mode, not a cheaper version without a display.

One of the circulating materials refers to the navy variant by the English name Starry River Blue, with a glittering star dust effect — but its origin cannot be confirmed. Official Chinese color names for Xiaomi have not yet been provided.

What is missing from any of the materials

The materials do not include diagonal screens or pixel resolutions. We also do not know the refresh rate, dimming method, or parameters of the rear display itself: its size, resolution, and brightness. There is a lack of charging power, dimensions, weight, IP resistance class, memory variants, and any price.

Leaks fill some of these gaps, but these are no longer Xiaomi’s words. GSMArena reported in April 6.3 inches for the 18 Pro and 6.9 inches for the 18 Pro Max with a flat LTPO OLED panel, and a July post from tipster Digital Chat Station mentioned 100 W wired charging and support for wireless charging. Treat these numbers as hints, not specifications.

It is still unknown if and when the series will reach Europe. The entire campaign is Chinese, and the partners on the back screen — Meituan, Haidilao, Starbucks CN — are brands from that market. The Chinese poster, however, mentions purchasing in 12 installments without interest.

What it means for accessories

One thing is clear in every render: the cutout in the case must cover the entire island along with the screen, not just two holes for the lenses. A case that covers the display with plastic takes away its purpose. The same goes for the camera glass — a sensible cover only shields the optics and leaves the area above the screen free.

Xiaomi has not yet provided the dimensions of the case, so any compatibility with accessories from the previous generation can only be discussed conditionally. What is certain is what can be seen: the layout of the back is different from the Xiaomi 17 series, and the previous generation does not have an additional screen at all. We will provide specifics about compatibility after September 23.

Everything that fits the new series is collected in one place — accessories for the Xiaomi 18 series — with separate shelves for accessories for the Xiaomi 18 Pro and accessories for the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max. Xiaomi talks about two sizes, so the cases will most likely not be interchangeable between them — we will confirm this when we know the dimensions.

Summary

The Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are the first Xiaomi phones where the second screen is not a novelty glued to the case, but an integrated platform within the camera island with its own applications. Additionally, there are dual 200 Mpix with Leica, optics with a range of 17–75 mm, and batteries of 7000 and 8500 mAh — all of this is still pre-release material, not a manufacturer announcement.

The conference is on Wednesday, September 23 at 1:00 PM Polish time. Then we will learn the prices, diagonals, and whether the series will even leave China.

FAQ — frequently asked questions

When is the Xiaomi 18 Pro premiere?

September 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM Chinese time, which is 1:00 PM in Poland. The date comes from a poster for Xiaomi’s autumn conference that leaked before the premiere.

What is the difference between the Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max?

The size of the casing, battery (7000 vs. 8500 mAh), and processor — the Pro gets the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, while the Pro Max has the more powerful Elite Extreme Gen 6. The cameras, screen, and bezel width are listed as common for both sizes.

What is the screen on the back of the Xiaomi 18 Pro?

A touch-sensitive, color display built into the camera island, next to the lenses. It supports app cards — from a water meter to a stopwatch and pomodoro timer — displays animated mascots, and serves as a preview for selfies taken with the main camera.

What processor does the Xiaomi 18 Pro have?

Different in both models. The Xiaomi 18 Pro gets the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, while the Xiaomi 18 Pro Max has the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6. Both are built on a 2 nm process.

How much does the Xiaomi 18 Pro cost?

The price has not been provided in any material — neither in yuan nor in euros. We will know it on September 23.

Does the case from the Xiaomi 17 Pro fit the Xiaomi 18 Pro?

Xiaomi has not yet provided the dimensions of the casing, so there is no certain answer today. However, the layout of the back is clearly different, and the previous generation does not have an additional screen in the island — after the premiere, we will update the shelves of both models with accessories that have confirmed compatibility.

Will the Xiaomi 18 Pro come to Poland?

There is currently no information about this. All materials concern the Chinese premiere.

Honor will showcase the Magic 9 series in Beijing on September 28, 2026. The date was confirmed by the brand’s president Li Jian, and reservations in China have already begun. The strongest argument for the new series is the set of two 200-megapixel sensors and imaging developed in collaboration with ARRI — the German film camera company known to anyone who has watched the credits of a major production.

Note: this article was created before the official presentation. The release date, collaboration with ARRI, Snapdragon configuration, and set of photography accessories come from Honor’s materials; the screen diagonals, battery capacities, and distribution of configurations between models are still leaks from Chinese services. Everything will be confirmed on September 28.

Photos reveal more than announcements

In the official renders, it’s worth taking a closer look at the ring around the camera module — Honor has engraved the full specifications of both sensors on it. It can be read that the main camera is 200 MP on a 1/1.28 inch sensor with an f/1.57 aperture and three-axis stabilization, while the periscope is 200 MP on a 1/1.4 inch sensor with an f/2.6 aperture. This is the same set described by Chinese services, but here it is provided by the manufacturer itself, in fine print on the casing.

The ARRI logo sits on the module, next to the lens. The brand doesn’t make phones — it makes cameras used to shoot feature films — so its involvement pertains to color grading and video mode, not the optics themselves.

Five colors of the entire series

Honor showcased the series in five variants. The names are cinematic and that’s no coincidence: Curtain Black refers to the curtain, Opening White to the opening credits, and Silver Salt alludes to silver salt, which is part of traditional photography chemistry.

The full palette includes Curtain Black, Opening White, Olive Green, Silver Salt, and Popcorn Yellow. Yellow and olive are matte, solid backs without gloss — this finish gets dirty less easily, but shows scratches more prominently, so with these two colors, a case is not a matter of taste.

Attachable telephoto lenses instead of digital zoom

The most interesting element of the premiere is not part of the phone. Honor has prepared a Master Camera Kit — a set with two attachable lenses: a compact 200 mm (81 mm in length, 88 grams) for everyday carry and a 500 mm for situations where digital zoom falls short: birds, animals, sports from the stands.

For the buyer of accessories, there is one practical conclusion. Such a lens is mounted on a dedicated case with a ring, not on any case — this is a rule we have already seen with OPPO and vivo photography kits. Whoever reaches for this set will practically use two cases: a photography one for sessions and a regular, thinner one for the rest of the day.

Specifications: Magic 9 and Magic 9 Pro Max

Where sources disagree

Two things should be taken with caution, as reports are conflicting.

Base version processor. Some leaks attribute the Magic 9 to the previous Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip in a 3 nm process, while Gen 6 is reserved for the Pro Max. Chinese outlets, however, state that the entire series belongs to the first wave with Gen 6 in 2 nm. The premiere will clarify.

Battery capacity in the Pro Max. You will encounter both 8800 mAh and reports of a peak version reaching 10,000 mAh. The latter number would be a record for a phone of this size, so it’s even more worth waiting for official data.

There is also context that explains the timing. Qualcomm is showcasing Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 at the Snapdragon Summit on September 22–24, and Honor is entering four days later. This is the shortest possible gap — the brand wants to be the first with the new chipset before the competition does.

What it means if you have Magic 7 or Magic 8

If photography is your top priority, the leap is real: two 200 MP sensors instead of one and color science developed with ARRI is a different league than previous generations. If you mainly use your phone as a phone, feel free to wait for the European premiere and the first tests — Honor usually brings the Magic series to our market with a few weeks delay and in a narrower lineup.

Accessories from the previous generation will not fit. The camera module changes shape and size, so cases from Magic 8 or Magic 8 Pro are out of the question. Protection for earlier models can be found in the categories of Honor Magic 7, and all brand accessories are collected in the Honor category.

Summary

Magic 9 is a premiere built around two things: a pair of 200 MP sensors and the name ARRI on the camera module. Additionally, it features a 2-nanometer Snapdragon, a large battery, and a set of attachable telephoto lenses that no one else has in this form today.

The caveat is the same as with any Chinese premiere: on September 28, we will learn about the Chinese version of events. The European lineup, prices, and release dates may vary.

FAQ — frequently asked questions

When is the Honor Magic 9 premiere?

September 28, 2026, in Beijing. The date has been confirmed by the Honor CEO, and reservations in China have already begun.

Does the Magic 9 really have two 200 MP cameras?

Yes. The specifications of both sensors are engraved by Honor on the ring around the module: 200 MP 1/1.28″ f/1.57 for the main one and 200 MP 1/1.4″ f/2.6 for the periscope.

What is ARRI in the Honor camera?

ARRI is a German manufacturer of film cameras. The collaboration concerns color reproduction and video modes, not the optics themselves — similar to Hasselblad with OPPO or Zeiss with vivo.

What colors does the Honor Magic 9 come in?

Five: Curtain Black, Opening White, Olive Green, Silver Salt, and Popcorn Yellow. The names reference cinema and traditional photography.

What is the Master Camera Kit?

Set with two interchangeable telephoto lenses: 200 mm for everyday carry and 500 mm for long-distance photography. They are mounted on a dedicated case with a ring.

Will the case for Honor Magic 8 fit Magic 9?

No. The camera module changes shape and dimensions, so a case dedicated to the new series will be needed.

External sources: Gizmochina — premiere on September 28 and 2 nm chip, Nokiamob — Master Camera Kit and 500 mm extender, IT Home — official announcement of the date, Chinaz — first wave of Snapdragon in 2 nm

The vivo X500 series will be showcased on September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM Chinese time. The manufacturer has already confirmed the date, four colors of both main models, and the key selling point: a periscope telephoto lens 200 MP on a 1/1.4 inch sensor in the Pro Max version.

The photographic ambassador of the brand is Jay Chou, who unboxed the Pro Max before the premiere — and in the process revealed an accessory that vivo had not mentioned a word about.

Note: this article was created before the official presentation. It is based on official materials from vivo and leaks from Chinese services and Weibo. Full specifications and prices will be confirmed on September 21.

Three models instead of two

vivo is splitting the series into three variants and for the first time is using the name Pro Max.

The base version is by no means a poor relative. Screenshots from the „About Phone” section of the Chinese demo show Dimensity 9600M clocked at 4.21 GHz, 12 GB RAM with 24 GB of extended memory, 512 GB of storage, an additional 50 GB from compression, and a separate image processor BlueImage V3+.

Periscope 200 MP — the strongest argument for Pro Max

The heart of the X500 Pro Max is the periscope telephoto lens 200 MP on a Samsung HP0 sensor with a format of 1/1.4 inches. This is an unusual approach: most manufacturers give the largest sensor to the main camera, treating the telephoto as an addition. vivo reverses this order.

Additionally, it features 30× zoom, stabilization CIPA 7.0, and support for a detachable 400 mm teleconverter. The main camera is 50 MP with a three-axis gimbal and a dynamic range claimed at 17 EV.

The video specs are impressive on paper: 4K 240 fps, 8K in RAW, slow motion 4K 960 fps, and 4K 120 fps in 10-bit Log. All of this is produced as part of a long-standing collaboration with Zeiss.

The base model receives a Sony LYT-828 1/1.28″ sensor known from the X300 Pro, a periscope 64 MP LYT-610, and support for a 200 mm teleconverter. Stabilization at the level of CIPA 5.5.

Creator’s kit and the mysterious square screen

The most interesting element of the launch is not the phone. In Jay Chou’s unboxing, a small square display flashed, which vivo had not announced. The manufacturer confirmed that it is an external preview monitor.

The idea is simple: you connect it to your phone and record yourself with the main camera instead of the front one, seeing the frame on a separate screen. For someone who shoots vlogs, beauty content, or unboxings from a tripod, this is the difference between a selfie lens and a full-featured rear camera.

The monitor is part of the creator kit for the X500 Pro Max, which also includes: a dedicated case, two teleconverters, a grip with a remote, and a strap. vivo has been building an ecosystem of photographic accessories around the X series for several generations, but this is the first time a separate display has landed in the box.

Colors of vivo X500 Pro Max

vivo showcased four variants, all with a two-tone back and — in some color options — flecks that illuminate at an angle.

„Capture the Night” — a dark, muted version.

„Sunny Day” — a white described by vivo as „scattering clouds”.

„Echo of the Earth” — a silvery variant with flecks resembling the Milky Way.

The fourth is “Glow of the Aurora” — a warm orange visible in the opening photo of the article.

The base model receives three of the same colors — Sunny Day, Capture the Night, and Echo of the Earth — and instead of Glow of the Aurora it features “Dawn”.

When is the premiere and what about Europe

The Chinese presentation will take place on September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM. For India, leaks suggest October or November, following the V70 series.

There is no European date. vivo has been bringing the X series to our market in a trimmed version and with delays measured in months for several years, so there’s no immediate hope for the X500 Pro Max in Polish distribution — if it appears at all.

Is it worth waiting if you have the X300?

If you are using vivo X300 Pro, you have the same main camera — the LYT-828 returns in the base X500. The upgrade mainly concerns the telephoto lens, and that is the reason for the exchange, not the rest of the specifications.

However, if long focal length photography is your main scenario, the 200 MP periscope on a 1/1.4 inch sensor is simply in a different class than anything vivo has offered before.

Accessories from the X300 series will not fit — the camera module changes radically, from a rectangle to a large circle in the middle of the housing. Cases and glass for the new series will usually appear with us within a few days of the debut; all accessories for vivo phones can be found in one category.

Summary

vivo X500 Pro Max is a phone built around a telephoto lens, not around the main camera — and that is the most interesting thing about it. Additionally, it features a 2-nanometer Dimensity 9600 Pro, a battery around 8000 mAh, and an ecosystem of accessories that has grown this generation with an external preview monitor.

The base model looks more reasonable than base versions usually do: 7500 mAh, 90 W, flat 1.5K screen, and a main sensor from last year’s Pro.

FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

When is the vivo X500 premiere?

September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM Chinese time. The premiere in India is expected in October or November, the European date has not been announced.

What is the difference between vivo X500 Pro Max and X500 Pro?

Primarily the screen and telephoto lens. Pro Max has a 6.83–6.85 inch screen and a 200 MP periscope on a 1/1.4″ sensor, while Pro is compact — about 6.36 inches — and gets a 64 MP telephoto with an 85 mm focal length. Pro Max also has a larger battery.

What processor does the vivo X500 have?

The base version gets the Dimensity 9600M built on a 3 nm process, clocked at 4.21 GHz. Both Pro models use the more powerful Dimensity 9600 Pro made in 2 nm.

What is that square screen included with the X500 Pro Max?

It is an external preview monitor. It allows you to record yourself with the main rear camera instead of the front one, seeing the frame on a separate display. It comes as part of the creator kit along with a case, two teleconverters, a grip, and a strap.

What colors does the vivo X500 Pro Max come in?

Four: „Capture the Night”, „Sunny Day”, „Echo of the Earth” and „Glow of the Aurora”. Instead of Glow of the Aurora, the base model gets „Dawn”.

Does the case from the vivo X300 fit the X500?

No. The camera module changes shape from rectangular to a large circle placed in the middle of the casing, so a case dedicated to the new series will be needed.

External sources: Gizmochina — overview of X500 series specifications, IT Home — official colors, Notebookcheck — confirmed launch date, iXBT — Pro Max specifications

OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max will be unveiled on September 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM Chinese time. The Pro Max model features the world’s first set of three 200-megapixel cameras, and both versions come with an 8000 mAh battery designed to maintain its capacity for five years.

This is a launch that changes the balance of power in the photography segment. Until now, manufacturers have provided one 200 MP sensor and built all communication around it. OPPO is introducing three: in the main, ultra-wide, and periscope lenses at once.

Note: this article was written before the official presentation. The battery capacity, camera setup, and series lineup come from OPPO’s own materials, which we describe below alongside each graphic; prices, the full specifications of the Find X10 E, and some parameters are still leaks from Chinese sources. Everything will be confirmed on September 22.

It is worth pausing on this poster, because it comes from OPPO itself and says more than the leaks do. The headline says it plainly: ultra-sharp Hasselblad camera, and under the names of both models there is a note that the module was co-developed with Hasselblad. The manufacturer splits its promises into three tiles:

• Detail sharpness — on the left the upgraded set of two 200 MP lenses for the Find X10, on the right, with a Pro Max badge, the world premiere of a set of three 200 MP lenses. That settles which variant gets what.
• Color reproduction — the second generation of the Danxia lens responsible for colors.
• True light and shadow — LUMO, a native light and shadow engine.

When is the OPPO Find X10 launch?

The conference will take place on September 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM Chinese time. The date was given by OPPO itself in the ad that opens the Weibo app, with the slogan “world premiere on September 22”.

⚠ Many Western outlets are circulating the date September 17, and it is misleading: that day is a separate ColorOS 17 conference, the system that will debut on the Find X10 series. The phone itself will be shown five days later.

Reservations in China have already started. Customers can lock in a benefits package worth 557 yuan for a token amount, and at the same time they can also reserve the Enco X4 headphones and the Watch S2, which will be showcased on the same day.

The screenshot of the reservation page is more interesting than it looks. Under each of the three phones — Find X10 E, Find X10, and Find X10 Pro Max — stands the same formula: for one cent (0.01 yuan) a loyalty program member locks in a benefits package worth 557 yuan. OPPO does the same with the accessories shown on that day:

• OPPO Enco X4 labelled “super new product” — a free reservation with a chance to win the headphones, plus a case valued at 139 yuan to be locked in for one cent, limited to 3000 units.
• OPPO Watch S2 — also a free reservation with a chance to win the watch, and on top of that a charging stand worth 69 yuan for one cent, limited to 2500 units.

At the bottom of the page there is also a timeline of the campaign: reservations open, design reveal, and the launch event. In other words, OPPO planned the campaign in three stages, with the design meant to be shown before the launch itself.

Change in the series lineup — Pro disappears, E appears

The most important organizational change: there is no intermediate Pro model in this generation. The offer jumps from the base version straight to Pro Max, while the Ultra variant is on a separate track and will not appear in September.

However, the reservation page shows a new model — Find X10 E. OPPO has not revealed anything specific about it yet apart from the name, suggesting a cheaper variant opening the series.

Three 200 MP cameras — what does it really mean

OPPO describes it as the world premiere of a set of three 200 MP lenses. In the Find X10 Pro Max, the sensor of this resolution gets a main camera, ultra-wide, and periscope telephoto lens — none have been treated as secondary.

The leaked apertures look like this: f/1.5 for the main, f/2.2 for the ultra-wide, and f/2.1 for the telephoto, with stabilization at CIPA level 7.5. The base model Find X10 gets a set of two 200 MP lenses.

This is the official design teaser, captioned “coming in September”. It shows a rectangular island with heavily rounded corners, surrounded by a knurled, ribbed ring resembling the edge of a camera lens. The three lenses sit on the left side of the island, while the flash and the sensor ended up in a separate section on the right. The fine print below is the standard disclaimer that the image is for reference only.

For anyone buying accessories this is the most important illustration in the whole set of materials: the shape and size of the island determine the cutout in the case, and the ribbed ring is exactly the element that gets scratched easily when you put the phone down on its back.

However, the resolution itself is the least interesting part. OPPO announces three things that make a bigger difference in practice:

• Second generation Danxia lens responsible for color reproduction
• LUMO — a new native light and shadow engine
• DeepPix — real-time HDR processing with a range of up to 17 EV per frame

Additionally, it supports 4K 60 fps recording in HDR directly in regular video mode, without switching to a special mode. This was developed in collaboration with Hasselblad, continued from several generations of the Find X.

8000 mAh battery that is supposed to last five years

Both versions — Find X10 and Pro Max — receive a silicon-carbon cell with a capacity of 8000 mAh, dubbed by OPPO the “glacier battery”. The manufacturer claims it will retain its usable capacity for five years, which directly addresses the most common criticism of large silicon batteries.

Charging, according to leaks, is 80 W wired and 50 W wirelessly.

If you are planning to purchase, it’s worth having a charger beforehand. Manufacturers have not included it in the package for several years, and an 8000 mAh battery connected to an old 18 W block takes well over three hours to charge. In our offer, you will find wall chargers tailored for flagships and wireless chargers — with a declared 50 W without a cable, this is no longer an emergency charging solution, but a real alternative to a cable.

The graphic carries the OPPO logo and leaves no room for guesswork: 8000 mAh is the capacity of the “glacier battery” cell, and the caption next to it declares five-year battery durability. Both figures apply to the Find X10 as well as the Pro Max — the poster names both models in its headline.

Specification of OPPO Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max

The discrepancy regarding the Pro Max screen is real: some sources report 6.78 inches, while others 6.82. This will be clarified on the launch day.

Colors of OPPO Find X10 Pro Max

The ad that opens Weibo revealed four official colors: moon white, warm orange, ice blue, and light titanium. In that material the Find X10 Pro Max appeared in moon white and the base version in ice blue — the Find X10 E stood alongside them.

It is worth noting one caveat here. At the beginning of September, renders of the casing circulated online, which OPPO officially denied — Zhuo Shijie from OPPO stated directly that the real phone looks better than what was shown in the leaks. Therefore, until September 22, it is advisable to treat unofficial visualizations with caution.

How much will the OPPO Find X10 cost?

Chinese sources mention a starting price of around 7499 yuan, and for the Pro Max, a figure of 8200 Hong Kong dollars has appeared. These are still leaks — OPPO has not provided any official prices.

The European premiere has not been announced yet. Historically, the Find X series reaches our market a few weeks to several months after the Chinese debut, and usually in a narrower configuration than in China.

Is it worth waiting if you have the Find X9?

If photography is the most important thing for you, the jump is real — three 200 MP sensors and CIPA 7.5 stabilization are in a different league than the previous generation. The same goes for the battery: 8000 mAh with a declared five-year lifespan will be noticeable every day.

If you use the Find X9 or Find X9 Pro mainly as a phone, rather than a camera, you can comfortably wait for the European premiere and real tests. Especially since with such a large camera module, it’s worth checking how the phone feels in hand first.

Accessories for the previous generation will not fit — the camera module and the dimensions of the casing change enough that the case from the Find X9 is not compatible. This is a rule with every generation change. We collect protection for the new models in the Oppo Find X10 and Oppo Find X10 Pro Max categories.

What to prepare before the premiere

There are two things worth having before the phone hits distribution.

A charger with the appropriate power. Look for models 65 W or stronger with USB Power Delivery support (the fast charging standard). With a capacity of 8000 mAh, the difference between a good and a random charger is over two hours of waiting.

A power bank if you travel a lot. With such a battery, it only makes sense to have a power bank of 20,000 mAh or more — a smaller one won’t even be enough for a full charge.

Cases and glass for new OPPO models usually appear within a few days of their debut — they are gathered in the Oppo Find X10 Series category. You can find all accessories for this brand in the OPPO category.

Summary

OPPO Find X10 Pro Max is a premiere built around one strong argument: three 200 MP cameras at once, which no one else has today. Additionally, the 2-nanometer Dimensity 9600 Pro, an 8000 mAh battery with a five-year declaration, and the debut of ColorOS 17.

The caveat remains the same as with every Chinese premiere: on September 22, we will learn about the Chinese version of events. The European version of the series, prices, and timing may differ.

FAQ — frequently asked questions

When is the OPPO Find X10 premiere?

September 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM Chinese time. The date was given by OPPO itself in an ad on Weibo. The date of September 17 circulating online refers to a separate ColorOS 17 conference, not the phone launch.

Does the Find X10 Pro Max really have three 200 MP cameras?

Yes, and OPPO confirmed this in their promotional materials. The 200 MP sensor is assigned to the main lens, ultra-wide, and periscope telephoto lens. This is the first such set on the market.

What happened to the Find X10 Pro model?

It is not present in this generation. OPPO jumps from the base version straight to Pro Max, while Ultra follows a separate schedule. Instead of Pro, a new, cheaper Find X10 E appears.

What battery does the OPPO Find X10 have?

8000 mAh in both versions, a silicon-carbon cell. OPPO claims to maintain capacity for five years. Charging according to leaks: 80 W wired and 50 W wireless.

How much does the OPPO Find X10 Pro Max cost?

There are no official prices. Chinese leaks suggest the series will start around 7499 yuan, and for Pro Max, the amount is around 8200 HKD.

Will the case from Find X9 fit the Find X10?

No. The camera module and the dimensions of the casing are changing, so a case dedicated to the new generation will be needed.

External sources: GSMArena — pre-order and 8000 mAh battery, T3 — confirmation of three 200 MP cameras, IT Home — details of the camera setup, Gizmochina — series reservations