Xiaomi 18 Rumored to Drop Telephoto Camera Despite Major 200MP Upgrade
The Xiaomi 18 could bring a surprising change to the company’s next-generation flagship lineup. While many premium smartphones continue to add more camera hardware, early software clues suggest that Xiaomi’s upcoming standard flagship may take a different direction by offering only two rear cameras.
According to information reportedly found in Mi code, the Xiaomi 18 is being developed under the codenames Madrid and Q2. The device is expected to feature a powerful 200-megapixel main camera paired with an ultra-wide-angle lens. However, the usual third camera, believed to be a telephoto sensor, may be missing from the base model.
If accurate, this would mark an interesting shift for Xiaomi’s flagship strategy. Telephoto cameras have become an important feature for users who want better zoom performance, portrait shots, and more flexible photography options. Removing it from the regular Xiaomi 18 could help Xiaomi separate the standard model more clearly from higher-end versions in the Xiaomi 18 series.
Earlier rumors suggested that the Xiaomi 18 might include two 200-megapixel sensors, potentially giving the phone a major advantage in both main and ultra-wide photography. However, this detail has not yet been confirmed through HyperOS-related findings, so it should be treated with caution for now.
Even without a telephoto camera, the Xiaomi 18 could still be a strong camera-focused flagship if the 200MP main sensor delivers improved image quality, better low-light performance, and sharper detail. Xiaomi has been steadily improving its mobile photography experience, and the Xiaomi 18 is expected to continue that trend.
The Xiaomi 18 will reportedly receive a global launch, with availability expected in key markets including Europe, India, Turkey, Indonesia, Taiwan, Russia, and Japan. This suggests Xiaomi is preparing the device for a wide international rollout rather than limiting it to China.
For now, the biggest question is whether Xiaomi will truly remove the telephoto lens from its entry-level flagship or whether the final hardware will differ from the early software clues. With the Xiaomi 18 expected to succeed the Xiaomi 17, more details should emerge as the launch window approaches.
