Xiaomi 18 development starts: Project 'Madrid' leaked

We’re not even halfway through 2026, and rumors for Xiaomi’s next flagship series have begun in earnest. Though the Xiaomi 17 series has taken over the charts as we speak, our internal research and data have finally given us a glimpse into what’s next: Xiaomi 18. This is no mere rumor, and we have verified actual internal identifiers that suggest the device is already deep in development. From a unique European-inspired codename to different model numbers for different markets, here is all we know about the device that will shape the future of flagships later this year.

TL;DR

Codename: The Xiaomi 18 is being developed under the code name “madrid”.
Model Number: The device carries a model number sequence containing “Q3”.
Availability: Both Global and China variants have been spotted.
Launch Date: The device is expected to debut around September 2026.

The ‘Madrid’ Connection

Xiaomi has always used either mythological names or names of famous cities in its codenames, and it looks like the Xiaomi 18 is not an exception with its codename of “madrid”. Although the codename does not reveal any information related to its features, it clearly states that the device has entered the hardware testing stage. The positioning of the ““Q3” series in the model name is equally important.

Global vs. China Variants: What You Need to Know

The best part for international fans, though, is the fact that we have found specific mentions of both the Global and China versions of the Xiaomi 18. This means Xiaomi plans on rolling out this device on a global scale and not just within their own country. Of course, long-time Xiaomi fans will remember the meaning of the “Global” variant.

Warning: In the past, Global versions of Xiaomi flagships always come out with a slightly lower-capacity battery as opposed to the Chinese models, thanks to various certifications and stacking technologies. In that case, if the Chinese Xiaomi 18 comes out with a 6000mAh silicon-carbon battery, the Global variant is expected to arrive around 5500mAh.

What’s Next?

Currently, the “madrid” leak is providing us with our first evidence of life for the Xiaomi 18. As we are entering into Q3 of 2026, we are looking forward to more information being released concerning the cameras and charging speed of these devices.