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Xiaomi 18 Pro launch adds advanced privacy display controls

Xiaomi just launched the 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in China, both featuring a revamped privacy display. Like Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra, the hardware can hide your screen from curious bystanders, but Xiaomi lets you tailor privacy by app or use. You can also trigger it by location or use the selfie camera to detect “should I hide this?” moments. A global release is coming later this year.

Why it mattersThis means more nuanced control over who sees your sensitive info in public. And unlike last year, Xiaomi says you’ll actually be able to buy these new phones outside China.

Sources covering this

9to5GoogleXiaomi 18 Pro has a Privacy Display that does more than Galaxy S26 Ultra, launches this week [Video]5:25 PMThe VergeXiaomi’s new 18 Pro phones improve on Samsung’s privacy display12:04 PM
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