Xiaomi enthusiasts in Germany can finally look forward to the release of the Xiaomi 15, initially revealed in China last October. This flagship smartphone features a familiar design with subtle updates, improved balance due to better weight distribution, and a larger 5,240 mAh battery. The 6.36-inch display offers sharp visuals with enhanced features like an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. Additionally, the device introduces HyperAI for various tasks, while maintaining competitive pricing in the German market.
Xiaomi enthusiasts in Germany have eagerly awaited the arrival of this smartphone. The Xiaomi 15 was initially unveiled in China back in October of the previous year, and now, four months later, it is finally set to make its debut in the German market. This announcement was made during a significant press conference at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, where we had the opportunity to explore this latest flagship device from the renowned Chinese manufacturer.
When you hold the Xiaomi 15, it feels quite familiar. This is not surprising, as the design has largely remained consistent with its predecessor. The dimensions are almost identical, but subtle visual distinctions set the Xiaomi 14 apart from the 15. Notably, the photo LED is now positioned beside the camera module rather than within it, and the frame has transitioned from glossy to a stylish matte finish, imparting a sleek, unified look to the device.
Enhanced Balance in the Xiaomi 15
Xiaomi has also addressed another aspect: the balance of the device. Unlike its predecessor, the Xiaomi 15 is no longer top-heavy, thanks to an improved weight distribution. This change is likely attributed to the larger battery, which has been strategically placed in the lower section of the chassis to counterbalance the hefty camera module. The new battery boasts a capacity of 5,240 milliampere-hours (mAh), a significant upgrade from the previous 4,610 mAh.
Whether this increased capacity, combined with the new and highly efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite processor from Qualcomm, translates into extended battery life remains to be determined. A thorough review in our editorial office will provide more insights. Interestingly, despite the larger battery, the overall weight of the phone feels unchanged.
First Impressions of the Xiaomi 15
Here’s what you can expect from the Xiaomi 15.
The display of the Xiaomi 15 maintains a diagonal measurement of 6.36 inches, placing it among the more compact options within the premium smartphone category. This size not only makes it easy to slip into a pocket but also allows for comfortable one-handed operation. The screen retains the same Full HD+ resolution as its predecessor and supports refresh rates of up to 120 Hertz. With a peak brightness of 3,200 nits, it is reported to outperform the Xiaomi 14’s maximum brightness of 3,000 nits, although a direct comparison using measurement tools would be needed to confirm this.
While the display is sharp, the colors produced by the AMOLED panel may not appear as vibrant as those found on Samsung devices. Xiaomi has opted for a more understated color palette by default. However, users have the option to customize their color settings within the phone’s interface.
In comparison to the Xiaomi 14, the display introduces two noteworthy features: the fingerprint sensor now employs ultrasound technology instead of the previous optical sensor, enhancing both speed and security while reducing errors. Additionally, the screen’s protective layer utilizes Xiaomi’s own Shield Glass, which was first introduced with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra last year, replacing Corning Gorilla Glass.
Introducing HyperAI in the Xiaomi 15
One noticeable change on the home screen of the Xiaomi 15 is the dynamic wallpaper featuring Xiaomi’s premium electric car, the SU7 Ultra. This effect is powered by an artificial intelligence named HyperAI, which can create animated visuals for the home and lock screens from static images upon request.
HyperAI offers more than just aesthetics—it can transcribe and translate phone calls in real-time, assist in photo editing, and even help draft written content. These functions are easily accessible through the HyperAI button, a vibrant pulsating icon available on the keyboard or within the gallery. While some of these features were previously available on the Xiaomi 14T and 14T Pro, they are now consolidated under the HyperAI branding. Users will need a free Xiaomi account to access these capabilities.
Interestingly, Xiaomi has opted not to include its proprietary AI assistant, which is available only in China as Super XiaoAI. Instead, the Xiaomi 15 comes pre-installed with Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, which can perform tasks within Xiaomi applications like Notes, Calendar, and Clock.
The effectiveness and reliability of these new AI features remain to be fully evaluated, as they were not activated on the demo devices we reviewed. A software update after the devices are delivered is expected to enable these functions. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that Xiaomi’s AI offerings on international models do not yet match the comprehensive capabilities of competitors like Samsung or Apple, as HyperAI does not include features such as morning briefings or notification summaries.
Nonetheless, HyperAI represents a significant innovation compared to its predecessor. Besides the new processor and enhanced battery, the hardware has seen minimal changes. The camera system continues to feature a triple camera setup with 50 megapixels each on the rear, developed in collaboration with Leica. The device supports wired charging at 90 watts and wireless charging at 50 watts, with the addition of WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0 capabilities.
Pricing and Availability
In contrast to the situation in China, Xiaomi has opted not to raise prices for the German market. The Xiaomi 15 is available in Black, White, Green, and Liquid Silver, offered in two storage configurations: the 12 GB RAM with 256 GB storage variant priced at 999.90 euros and the 512 GB version at 1,099.90 euros. Additionally, customers purchasing the Xiaomi 15 during the launch period can take advantage of various promotional gifts.
Final Thoughts
With the Xiaomi 15, the company has primarily made incremental adjustments. The larger battery enhances handling, but whether it results in a noticeable improvement in battery life will be revealed in our detailed testing. Furthermore, we will assess the practicality of the new AI features in everyday usage.