Xiaomi’s bold dual-display experiment sparks debate among smartphone fans

The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max has officially arrived, and its most talked-about feature isn’t just the powerhouse specs but the innovative dual-display design. With a secondary screen integrated into the camera module, Xiaomi aims to redefine how users interact with their smartphones. But the question remains — is it genuinely useful, or simply a flashy gimmick?

Launched in September 2025, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is the company’s latest flagship, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. It features a 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED main display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 7,500mAh battery that supports 120W fast charging. Yet, despite these top-tier specifications, most of the buzz surrounds the new rear-facing “Dynamic Back Display.”

This 2.9-inch secondary screen is neatly built into the camera island, offering always-on functionality for notifications, time, music controls, and more. It even allows users to take high-quality selfies using the rear cameras — one of the biggest selling points Xiaomi has highlighted in its marketing campaigns. The company claims this design helps users save battery and access essential information without unlocking the main screen.

Early reviewers, however, are divided. Some praise the practicality of using the main camera for selfies with a live rear preview, while others question whether the feature adds real daily value. In practice, the screen works well for quick glances, but most apps don’t yet fully support its functions, limiting its potential.

From a design perspective, the rear display adds futuristic flair. The curved glass finish and ultra-thin 1.18mm bezels make the phone look premium. For those who enjoy customization, the secondary panel supports animated wallpapers, personal widgets, and even interactive themes that change based on notifications or battery status. It’s an aesthetic touch that sets the 17 Pro Max apart from rivals like the Galaxy S24 Ultra or iPhone 17 Pro.

Still, there are trade-offs. The phone’s large size and added hardware make it heavier than competitors. Battery life, while strong on paper, only marginally surpasses last year’s Xiaomi 16 Ultra in real-world endurance tests. Moreover, the dual display can occasionally cause accidental touches when handled without a case — an issue some early adopters have pointed out.

For UK users, the global availability of the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max remains limited, with the first shipments expected later this year. Some dual-display software features may also debut later in updates, as current firmware versions are mainly optimized for the Chinese market. Xiaomi has confirmed ongoing development to expand third-party app support for the rear screen.

Despite its novelty, the dual display is not a must-have feature for everyone. Users who enjoy photography and personalization may find it genuinely helpful, while others could see it as an unnecessary luxury. Still, it showcases Xiaomi’s ambition to push hardware innovation beyond conventional smartphone design.

In terms of performance, the 17 Pro Max is undeniably powerful, with smooth multitasking, gaming performance, and vibrant visuals. Its triple-camera system, led by a 200MP main sensor, delivers sharp, detailed photos — a fitting companion to the rear preview screen for content creators.

Ultimately, whether the dual display is a gimmick or a useful innovation depends on user preference. It’s a bold experiment that hints at where smartphone design might head next — a fusion of aesthetics and function. For now, the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max proves that even in a saturated flagship market, there’s still room for daring ideas.

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