Xiaomi is reportedly developing a new wide-screen Android phone

Xiaomi is reportedly developing a brand new wide-screen slab phone that breaks away from the traditionally tall smartphone design. According to recent leaks, the upcoming device will feature proportions similar to the cover screens found on modern foldable phones.

• Xiaomi is working on a wide-screen non-folding smartphone.
• The device may feature a side-mounted fingerprint scanner.
• Other major Chinese brands like Huawei, OPPO, vivo, and Honor are exploring similar designs.

The rise of wide screens

Wide foldables have gained immense popularity, surpassing initial market expectations. This success is primarily driven by a growing consumer demand for smaller yet powerful phones, alongside the proven ergonomics of wider screens over excessively tall ones. These changing preferences are now giving birth to an entirely new category of slab smartphones.

Industry insider Digital Chat Station reports that Xiaomi's new wide phone will feature dimensions closely resembling the cover display of foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold 8. While specific screen measurements remain unconfirmed, it is expected to offer a comfortable aspect ratio. Additionally, the leak suggests the inclusion of a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a design choice commonly seen on folding devices.

Industry competitors and timeline

Xiaomi is not the only manufacturer exploring this form factor. Huawei previously launched the Pura X View, a wide-screen slab phone that does not fold. Rumors also suggest that OPPO is working on a competing device that could feature dual 200-megapixel cameras, while vivo and Honor are reportedly racing to launch similar models by 2027.

Many of these first-generation wide slab phones are expected to remain exclusive to the Chinese market initially. However, as the form factor matures and demand expands, later iterations are likely to see a wider global release, potentially reshaping mainstream smartphone designs in the coming years.

What this means for the tech industry

The emergence of wide-screen slab phones represents a shift toward more practical device ergonomics, offering users the visual benefits of foldables without the complexity or high cost of hinges. For the broader tech market, this trend signals a move away from ultra-tall aspect ratios toward displays that are easier to use with one hand, opening up new possibilities for mobile design and usability worldwide.