Xiaomi has long been famous for its innovative smartphones, but the line of Mini-versions has always been of particular interest to fans of compact devices. After the success of Xiaomi 13 Mini in 2023, users are again wondering: when will the Xiaomi 12 Mini come out and should we wait? This article will collect all the known facts, rumors and analytical forecasts about the possible release of a model that never saw the light of day.
It’s important to understand that the Xiaomi 12 Mini is a potential device that could fill the niche of affordable compact flagships in 2022, but for unknown reasons was never announced. Today we will analyze why this could happen, what specs users expected, and whether there is a chance for a retro release of the model in 2026-2026 with the latest hardware.
Why Xiaomi 12 Mini never came out: official and unofficial versions
The Xiaomi 12 Mini story began in 2021, when the first leaks about the preparation of the compact version of the Xiaomi 12 flagship appeared on the network. However, unlike the Xiaomi 13 Mini, which was released a year later, this model remained in the status of “phantom”.
- 🔄 Changing brand strategy: In 2022, Xiaomi bet on large screens (6.7" and above) in the flagship lineup, considering compact smartphones a niche segment.
- 📉 Problems with chipsets: According to insiders, the prototype Xiaomi 12 Mini was developed on the basis of the Snapdragon 870, but the shortage of chips in 2021-2022 forced the company to redirect resources to other models.
- 💰 Economic feasibility: Analysts note that the demand for compact flagships is falling — users prefer “budget maxi” (for example, Redmi Note 12 Pro).+) instead of expensive mini-smartphones.
Interesting fact: the IMEI database still contains a record of a model codenamed 22041211AC, which is supposedly related to the Xiaomi 12 Mini, which indirectly confirms that development was underway but was frozen.
⚠️ Warning: If you see offers to buy the “original” Xiaomi 12 Mini on the secondary market (for example, on AliExpress or Avito) – it is 100% fraud. Officially, this model has never been released, and under the guise of “Mini” often sell re-labeled Redmi or fakes.
Xiaomi 12 Mini Technical Specifications: What We Know From Leaks
Although the Xiaomi 12 Mini was not released, the network has preserved data on its alleged characteristics, based on leaks from insiders (such as the Digital Chat Station and Kacper Skrzypek), as well as on the analysis of prototypes.
| Parameter | Characteristics | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Screen. | 6.28" AMOLED, 120 Hz, FHD+ | Similar to Xiaomi 12, but with a reduced diagonal |
| Processor | Snapdragon 870 or Dimensity 1200 | China version could get MediaTek |
| RAM | 6/8GB of LPDDR5 | Standard for flagships of 2022 |
| Battery | 4200 mAh, 33 W fast charging | Less than the Xiaomi 12 (4500 mAh) |
| Camera. | 50 MP (main) + 13 MP (ultra-wide) + 5 MP (telephoto) | The module from Sony IMX766 |
Comparing this data with the real Xiaomi 13 Mini (2023), you can see that the latter received a more modern Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, but lost in the refresh rate of the screen (90 Hz vs. the estimated 120 Hz from 12 Mini).
Xiaomi 13 Mini: What to Choose Today
If the Xiaomi 12 Mini never came out, then its logical successor was the Xiaomi 13 Mini, released in February 2023.Let’s compare what the current model offers and whether it should be considered as an alternative to the “ghost” 12 Mini:
- ⚡ Performance: Xiaomi 13 Mini features Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 is a mid-budget chipset that loses to the supposed Snapdragon 870 in 12 Mini by 20–30% in AnTuTu tests.
- 📸 Camera: The 13 Mini has a 50MP core module (Sony) IMX707), which is better at night shooting, but loses in dynamic range.
- 🔋 Battery 4500 mAh vs. the estimated 4200 mAh of the 12 Mini, but charging slower (33 W vs 67 W flagships).
- 💵 Price: At the time of the release of the 13 Mini was worth ~40 000 ₽, Whereas 12 Mini (if it came out) could cost cheaper by 5-7 thousand.
The Xiaomi 13 Mini is a compromise for those who want a compact smartphone from Xiaomi here and now. However, in performance it is inferior not only to flagships, but also to many devices from the Redmi line (for example, the Redmi K60 with Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1).
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If you want a compact smartphone with top-end performance, look for the Asus Zenfone 10 (5.9" screen, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2) or Sony Xperia 5 IV (6.1," 120Hz).
Xiaomi 12 Mini alternatives: which compact smartphones to consider in 2026
If you are disappointed with the lack of Xiaomi 12 Mini, don't despair, there are good alternatives on the market.-5 compact smartphones (diagonal to the 6.3"), which can be bought today:
- Asus Zenfone 10 (2023) 📱 5.9" AMOLED, 120 Hz, FHD+ 🔥 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 16 GB RAM 📷 Double camera. 50+13 MP (Sony) IMX766) 💰 ~65 000 ₽
- Sony Xperia 5 IV (2022) 📱 6.1" OLED, 120 Hz, HDR 🔥 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 📷 Three cameras: 12+12+12 MP (with optical zoom) 💰 ~50 000 ₽ (b/w in excellent condition)
iPhone 13 mini
- 📱 5.4" Super Retina XDR
- 🔥 A15 Bionic (still relevant)
- 📷 Double camera. 12+12 MP (Best Video Optimization)
- 💰 ~45 000 ₽
The Asus Zenfone 10 stands out especially, the only compact smartphone of 2023 with a flagship processor and no compromise in performance. If budget allows, it is the best choice for gamers and fans of powerful technology. For photographers, the Sony Xperia 5 IV is ideal for a unique optics with variable focus.
Why is the iPhone 13 Mini still relevant in 2026?
Is Xiaomi 12 Mini retro release possible in 2026-2026?
Recently, rumors about the possible release of the Xiaomi 12 Mini have appeared again, but in an updated form.
- 🔮 Scenario 1: Redesigned version – Xiaomi may release a model under a new name (e.g. Xiaomi) 12S Mini) with Snapdragon 7 chipset+ Gen 2 and 120Hz screen Probability: 30%.
- 📦 Scenario 2: Limited Series - as it was with the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra (special batch for collectors). Probability: 15%.
- 🚫 Scenario 3: Total failure - the brand will finally close the Mini lineup in favor of foldable smartphones (e.g. Xiaomi Mix Fold 3%.
According to insiders from China, in 2026 Xiaomi plans to focus on foldable devices and smartphones with large screens (6.7”-7.3”).This means that the chances of even a redesigned version of the 12 Mini are minimal – no more than 20%.
If you’re still hoping for the Xiaomi 12 Mini, keep an eye out for the brand’s official channels on Weibo and X (Twitter), as well as leaks from trusted insiders like Ice Universe or Mukul Sharma. However, we recommend you not get hung up on this model and consider alternatives from the previous section.
Follow @Xiaomi on Twitter | Monitor #Xiaomi12Mini tags on social media | Read the XDA Developers and 4PDA forums | Check the Certification Base (TENAA, FCC) | Follow leaks from Ice Universe and Digital Chat Station-->
How and where to buy a Xiaomi 12 Mini, if it comes out
If the Xiaomi 12 Mini is on sale, here are the official and proven sources where it’s worth looking:
- 🌍 Global platforms: Mi Store (the official Xiaomi site for your region) AliExpress (only official sellers with a rating of 98%+) Amazon (check the seller – it should be “Ships from Amazon")
- 🇨🇳 Chinese stores (if ready to import): Giztop (specializes in Xiaomi), Banggood (often stock) Taobao (requires an intermediary to buy)
- 🏬 Offline stores: Network Svyaznoy or M. Video (if there is an official import) Branded Xiaomi boutiques in large shopping centers
It is worth remembering a few nuances:
⚠️ Note: When buying Xiaomi 12 Mini (if it comes out) pay attention to: Regional firmware - Chinese version (CN) The warranty is 12 months, the "gray" sellers - often 0. Price - if the smartphone is cheaper than the average market by 30 months%+, it's a fake.
We also recommend using price comparison services such as Yandex Market or Price.ru to find the best deal. If you are buying with your hands, be sure to check the device using ##4636# (equipment test) and *#06# (IMEI).
FAQ: Frequent questions about Xiaomi 12 Mini
Will the Xiaomi 12 Mini support 5G?
How much will the Xiaomi 12 Mini cost when it comes out?
What Android version will be in the Xiaomi 12 Mini?
How will the Xiaomi 12 Mini differ from the Redmi Note 12?
Should you wait for the Xiaomi 12 Mini or should you buy something else?
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The Xiaomi 12 Mini remains a ghost — its output is unlikely, and alternatives are already on the market.If you want a compact flagship, you’d better look at the Asus Zenfone 10 or iPhone 13 mini, which offer balanced specs here and now.