Highlights
- Xiaomi 18 has surfaced in the GSMA IMEI database with codename “madrid” and multiple regional model numbers.
- The “2611” prefix hints at a possible November 2026 release with wider global rollout expected earlier.
- The phone is rumoured to feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, LPDDR6 RAM, and a 6.3–6.4″ display.
The Xiaomi 18 series has been appearing in leaks and reports in recent months at constant intervals. The upcoming Xiaomi 18 smartphone has now reportedly been spotted in the GSMA IMEI database hinting that Xiaomi may have started the certification process ahead of its official debut. Here are more details.
Xiaomi 18 Appears in GSMA Database
According to a report by Ximitime, the Xiaomi 18 has appeared in the database carrying the internal codename “madrid.” The listing includes model numbers 2611FPNFAR, 2611FPNFAG, 2611FPNFAI, and M154FF. A GSMA database appearance is generally viewed as an early indicator that a smartphone is moving through the regulatory approvals required before commercial release.
The “madrid” device has been associated with model numbers for multiple regions including China, India, Japan, and global markets. Xiaomi traditionally introduces its flagship smartphones in China before rolling them out to international markets at a later stage.
Interestingly, the presence of several regional variants this early in development could indicate that Xiaomi is planning a wider global launch strategy sooner than it has done in previous years.
There is, however, some uncertainty regarding the exact identity of the device. Under Xiaomi’s earlier internal numbering system, the position assigned to “madrid” would typically suggest that the handset is a Pro model rather than the regular Xiaomi 18. However, information discovered through Mi Code indicates that Xiaomi may have revised its model-numbering approach this year.
The regional model numbers also feature the “2611” prefix, which is often used to estimate a device’s expected launch timeframe. Based on Xiaomi’s previous naming patterns, the Xiaomi 18 series could be scheduled for release around November 2026.
As for specifications, the Xiaomi 18 is rumoured to be powered by Qualcomm’s next-generation flagship processor, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. The chipset is expected to be paired with LPDDR6 RAM. The smartphone is also tipped to feature a display measuring between 6.3 inches and 6.4 inches.
Meanwhile, reports are claiming that the Xiaomi 18 Ultra may not arrive at all due to cost-related considerations. If Xiaomi ultimately decides against launching the Ultra variant, the lineup structure could change significantly making it possible for “madrid” to represent the standard Xiaomi 18.
At present, none of these details have been officially confirmed.
FAQs
Q1. What recent development confirms the Xiaomi 18 series is in progress?
Answer. The Xiaomi 18 has appeared in the GSMA IMEI database under the codename “madrid” signalling early certification steps.
Q2. When is the Xiaomi 18 expected to launch?
Answer. Based on the “2611” prefix in its model numbers and Xiaomi’s naming patterns, the series is likely to debut around November 2026.
Q3. What specifications are rumoured for the Xiaomi 18?
Answer. It is tipped to feature Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, LPDDR6 RAM, and a 6.3–6.4 inch display; the Ultra variant may be skipped due to cost.
