Xiaomi has reportedly cancelled the Xiaomi 18 Ultra. According to reports, the move is “99% confirmed.” This comes as memory prices spike in 2026, driven by the rapid demand for AI.
DRAM and NAND costs have quadrupled since early 2025, making the Ultra too expensive to build. Without it, Xiaomi won’t have a direct rival to Samsung’s premium flagship, the Galaxy S27 Ultra, in early 2027.
This means Xiaomi 18 Pro Max now takes the flagship spot. It’s expected to pack Ultra-level features like new camera technology, dual 200MP sensors, and an 8,500mAh battery.
Reports say the Ultra branding isn’t gone for good. Xiaomi could bring it back with the Xiaomi 19 Ultra in late 2027 or early 2028, once costs settle. Some reports say development is paused but not dead, with its 1-inch 200MP sensor still in progress.
This move reflects a wider industry trend. vivo, OPPO, and CMF have also scaled back or cancelled ultra-premium models as component prices rise.
Also Read: IDC: Global smartphone shipments fall 6.7% in Q2 2026 amid memory crisis
The Xiaomi 18 series, which includes the standard, Pro, and Pro Max, remains set for a September 2026 launch, timed with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Summit.
