Introduction: Xiaomi’s New Flagship Tablets
Xiaomi has unveiled its latest flagship tablets, the Xiaomi Pad 8 and Pad 8 Pro, as the company targets the premium tablet segment. Both models share an 11.2-inch LCD panel with an ultra-smooth 144Hz refresh rate and a slim 5.75mm profile. Powered by cutting-edge processor options and running HyperOS 3 based on Android 16, these tablets are positioned to compete with other premium Android devices in 2025.
Design and Display: a Slim, High-Refresh Experience
Both tablets measure a slim 5.75mm in thickness and weigh about 485 grams, delivering a lightweight yet sturdy feel. They use 11.2-inch LCD screens with a 3200×2136 resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio, offering a vivid 12-bit color depth and support for HDR10, HDR Vivid, and Dolby Vision. A matte edition option is available for reduced reflections—up to 70% less glare for easier reading and media consumption in bright environments.
Performance and Core Variants
The Xiaomi Pad 8 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, paired with up to 12GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage. Its camera setup includes an 8MP front camera and a 13MP rear shooter, balancing everyday video calls with capable photography.
Stepping up to the Pad 8 Pro brings the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite platform, with memory options up to 16GB and storage up to 512GB. The Pro edition doubles the front-facing camera to 32MP and the rear camera to 50MP, delivering enhanced video conferencing clarity and more flexible photography capabilities for creators and power users.
Audio, Battery, and Charging
Both tablets share a 9,200mAh battery, designed to deliver all-day use with ample headroom for productivity and entertainment. Charging speeds vary by model: the standard Pad 8 supports 45W charging, while the Pad 8 Pro supports faster 67W charging for quicker top-ups between sessions.
Software Experience: HyperOS 3 on Android 16
Software is a highlight, with HyperOS 3—Xiaomi’s latest layer built on Android 16. The interface emphasizes productivity features, smart multitasking, and smooth performance, aiming to maximize the 144Hz display fluidity and the overall user experience across work, study, and media consumption.
Audio and Connectivity
Both Pad 8 models come with a four-speaker system coupled with Dolby Atmos for rich, room-filling sound, enhancing movie watching, gaming, and video calls. While detailed connectivity specifics aren’t listed, the tablets are expected to include modern wireless and grid-based features common to premium tablets, ensuring solid performance for accessory ecosystems like keyboards and styluses.
Matte Edition and Practicality
The Matte Edition adds a textured surface to reduce glare and fingerprints, making the devices more comfortable to use in various lighting conditions. This option reflects Xiaomi’s emphasis on practical design choices that appeal to users who value both aesthetics and usability in daily life.
Pricing and Availability: China-First, then Global Reach
In China, the pads are launching at starting prices of approximately 2,199 yuan for the Pad 8 and 2,799 yuan for the Pad 8 Pro in the 8GB+128GB configurations. The products are initially positioned for the Chinese market, with no announced international release date or pricing at this stage. Prospective buyers outside China should watch for availability through Xiaomi’s global partners and regional launches later in the year.
What this Means for the Tablet Market
The Xiaomi Pad 8 family represents a deliberate push into the premium Android tablet segment, combining high-refresh displays, powerful silicon, and a refined software experience. Whether you’re a student, a creator, or a professional traveler, these tablets aim to deliver solid performance, excellent visuals, and flexible storage options, backed by Xiaomi’s evolving software ecosystem with HyperOS 3.
