Xiaomi seems ready to reignite its boldest smartphone lineup with the long-awaited Xiaomi Mix 5, and the leaks are pointing to some seriously futuristic upgrades.
If reports hold true, this device could set a new benchmark in display design by introducing a quad-curved screen and an under-display 3D facial recognition system—a first in the industry. With a potential launch before the iPhone 18, Xiaomi might just beat Apple to the punch in more ways than one.
Comeback
The Mix series has always been Xiaomi’s playground for innovation. Remember the original Mi Mix that introduced bezel-less design before it became mainstream? Or the Mix Alpha, which looked like a phone from 2030? The Mix 4, launched back in August 2021, brought Xiaomi’s first under-display front camera and a sleek ceramic body.
Now, almost four years later, the Mix 5 looks set to continue that legacy—this time with a sharper focus on a seamless, uninterrupted front experience. The goal is simple: no notches, no punch holes—just screen.
Display
According to reliable tipster Digital Chat Station, an unnamed smartphone brand is working on a phone with a quad-curved display and an under-display camera. Soon after, the same tipster teased fans by asking how many were waiting for the return of the Mix numbered series. The dots aren’t hard to connect—it’s likely he’s talking about the Mix 5.
A quad-curved display means that the screen curves not only on the sides (like we’ve seen before) but also at the top and bottom. This design promises a completely edge-free visual experience, further pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with smartphone displays.
Camera
The under-display camera tech is coming back—but this time with a big upgrade. Tipster Smart Pikachu suggests that Xiaomi might equip the Mix 5 with under-display 3D facial recognition. That’s a huge deal. While we’ve seen under-display selfie cameras before (including in the Mix 4), 3D face unlock is a whole different ballgame.
3D facial recognition systems like Apple’s Face ID rely on depth mapping for secure unlocking. Bringing that under the display, without compromising screen quality or unlock accuracy, is incredibly challenging—and Xiaomi could be the first to pull it off. If successful, the Mix 5 might become the first phone with under-display 3D Face Unlock in the world.
Launch
Leaks suggest the Mix 5 could be unveiled during Lei Jun’s annual keynote, Xiaomi’s CEO’s most anticipated annual event. This stage is typically reserved for Xiaomi’s most high-profile announcements, so the Mix 5 appearing here would make sense. It also shows how strategically important this phone is for Xiaomi’s long-term product roadmap.
Legacy
The Mix 4, launched in 2021, featured:
- 6.67-inch AMOLED screen
- Snapdragon 888+ processor
- Ceramic unibody design
- 20MP under-display front camera
However, its under-display camera performance didn’t exactly blow users away. Images appeared soft, and the screen area above the camera had visible distortion. The Mix 5, therefore, isn’t just another upgrade—it’s Xiaomi’s second shot at getting it right.
Timing
Timing could be everything. Rumors say Xiaomi is aiming to launch the Mix 5 before Apple’s iPhone 18, which is expected to arrive in September 2026. This strategic timing could help Xiaomi capture attention in the ultra-premium segment and re-establish the Mix line as a tech leader.
Plus, in an era where smartphone designs are starting to feel repetitive, the Mix 5 could shake things up with futuristic design and cutting-edge tech—something fans of innovation have been craving.
Xiaomi seems to be going all-in with the Mix 5. From an immersive quad-curved display to the industry’s first under-display 3D facial recognition, it’s clear the company wants this phone to turn heads. If Xiaomi nails the execution, the Mix 5 could once again prove that the Mix series is where the future of smartphones is built today.
FAQs
What display will the Mix 5 have?
A quad-curved AMOLED with no bezels or notches.
Will Mix 5 have under-display face unlock?
Yes, it may feature under-display 3D facial recognition.
Is this the first 3D face unlock under a screen?
Yes, Xiaomi could be the first to do it commercially.
When is Mix 5 expected to launch?
Possibly before iPhone 18, around mid-2026.
What was the last Mix model launched?
The Mix 4, launched in August 2021.
