Xiaomi 18 Fold Passport Design Takes Aim at iPhone Ultra 2026

The Xiaomi 18 Fold is set to debut with a passport-style form factor that directly targets the rumored iPhone Ultra, according to Xiaomi's latest teaser. The company plans to unveil the device at a major event just two days before Apple's keynote on September 9, signaling a bold challenge in the foldable market.

Xiaomi's announcement, shared via Twitter, promises new cars (including an SUV), the Xiaomi Pad 9 Pro, a proprietary processor, and the Xiaomi 18 Fold. While Xiaomi has released foldables before, this model stands out because it adopts a mid-fold design—a shape expected to define the next wave of premium foldables, including Apple's anticipated entry.

What Is a Passport Foldable?

Passport foldables, also called mid-folds, are wider and shorter than traditional book-style foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold. They sit between a Fold and a Flip, offering a more pocketable shape when closed while still providing a large inner display. Xiaomi claims this design addresses the common limitations of foldable phones, though the company hasn't detailed exactly how.

The form factor is gaining traction. Samsung recently launched the Galaxy Z Fold 8, which adopts a similar passport-like shape, and Huawei's Pura X View offers a half-fold design. These moves suggest the industry is converging on mid-fold as the next standard for premium foldables.

Why Xiaomi's Timing Matters

Xiaomi's event is scheduled just two days before Apple's iPhone keynote, a deliberate move to steal attention and position the Xiaomi 18 Fold as a direct competitor to the iPhone Ultra. The iPhone Ultra is rumored to be Apple's first foldable, and its design is expected to mirror the passport form factor.

By launching first, Xiaomi aims to establish itself as the innovator in this space. The company's teaser emphasizes solving the "usual limitation of foldables," hinting at improvements in durability, crease visibility, or software optimization—though specifics remain under wraps.

Key Features and What to Expect

Beyond the form factor, the Xiaomi 18 Fold is expected to showcase Xiaomi's new proprietary processor, which could deliver better performance and efficiency. The device will likely run Xiaomi's latest HyperOS, optimized for foldable multitasking.

Here are the key takeaways from the announcement:

• Passport design: A wider, shorter foldable that balances portability and screen real estate.
• Direct iPhone Ultra competitor: Xiaomi is positioning the 18 Fold against Apple's upcoming foldable.
• Proprietary chip: Xiaomi's own processor may power the device, reducing reliance on Qualcomm.
• Event timing: Launched two days before Apple's keynote to maximize impact.
• Ecosystem play: Unveiled alongside new cars and the Pad 9 Pro, highlighting Xiaomi's broader ambitions.

How the Xiaomi 18 Fold Compares to Rivals

The foldable market is heating up, with Samsung, Huawei, and now Xiaomi pushing mid-fold designs. The table below compares the known and expected specs of the Xiaomi 18 Fold with its closest competitors.

While Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra has already set a high bar for folding Android phones, Xiaomi's entry could disrupt the landscape with its custom chip and aggressive pricing. For a deeper look at Samsung's offering, see our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra review.

What This Means for the Foldable Market

The shift toward passport foldables represents a maturation of the category. Early foldables were criticized for being too tall and narrow when closed, making them awkward to use. The mid-fold design aims to fix that by providing a more usable outer screen and a less unwieldy shape.

Xiaomi's move also signals that the company is ready to compete at the highest end. With a proprietary processor and a design that matches Apple's rumored plans, Xiaomi is no longer just a value player—it's aiming for innovation leadership. This could pressure Samsung and others to accelerate their own mid-fold roadmaps.

FAQ

The Xiaomi 18 Fold's launch will be a key moment for foldables. If Xiaomi can deliver on its promises, it could set a new benchmark for the category. For a broader comparison of upcoming foldables, including the iPhone Duo and Galaxy Z Fold8, check out our foldable comparison guide.

As the most expensive Xiaomi yet, the 18 Fold also represents a strategic shift for the company. Our analysis of the Xiaomi 18 Fold and its custom chip explores how Xiaomi plans to justify the premium price.

Camera performance will be another battleground. Xiaomi's recent flagships have impressed, and the 18 Fold is expected to continue that trend. See how Xiaomi's camera tech stacks up in our best camera phones 2026 roundup.

Battery life is always a concern with foldables. Xiaomi's new device may support faster charging, and pairing it with a compact power bank could be essential. Don't miss the Xiaomi Ultra Slim power bank deal for on-the-go top-ups.

Finally, for a detailed look at how Samsung's latest foldable performs, read our Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra review. It sets the standard that Xiaomi aims to beat.