Xiaomi says users will be able to create AI-powered apps for the rear display on the upcoming Xiaomi 18 Pro series. The company previewed the feature in a short teaser video, showing how the secondary screen can handle small, task-focused tools instead of being limited to fixed widgets and pre-installed cards.

The examples shown include reminders to drink water, timers for cooking eggs, recipe recommendations and tools for learning new English words. Xiaomi has not detailed how users will create these apps or whether the feature will be available outside China.

How the Xiaomi 18 Pro rear display is changing

The rear display on the Xiaomi 17 Pro series could show selected widgets and a limited collection of pre-installed app cards. For the 18 Pro range, Xiaomi is positioning the panel as a more flexible space that can display custom experiences designed around individual tasks.

Rather than opening a full application on the phone’s main screen, users could use the rear panel for quick information or simple interactions. The examples in Xiaomi’s video suggest the display may be useful for everyday reminders, short timers, recommendations and lightweight learning activities.

However, Xiaomi has not yet announced the full set of supported features, the size or specifications of the display, or whether AI-created apps will require an internet connection or other services.

Brand partnerships will add custom app cards

Xiaomi also said it has partnered with several brands in China to provide custom app cards for the rear display. These cards will complement the AI-powered tools shown in the teaser and give partner companies a way to tailor content for the secondary screen.

The company has not named the participating brands in the available announcement. It also has not explained whether these cards will be installed by default, downloaded separately or offered through a dedicated software platform.

Xiaomi 18 Pro launch timing and chipset rumours

The Xiaomi 18 Pro and Xiaomi 18 Pro Max are scheduled to debut in China later this month. Xiaomi has not confirmed the phones’ full specifications in the announcement about the rear display.

The devices are reportedly expected to use Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset, which has not yet been officially announced. That detail remains a rumour, while the AI app support and brand partnerships were disclosed by Xiaomi through its official Weibo posts.

More information about the phones, including the rear display’s hardware, software limitations and regional availability, is expected around the Chinese launch.