Earlier today, Xiaomi released not just the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Pro but also the larger Xiaomi 17 Pro Max. In short, all three smartphones replace the Xiaomi 15 Pro and Xiaomi 15 (curr. $890 on Amazon), with Xiaomi aligning its flagship division to match those of Apple and Google.
While the Xiaomi 17 is a conventional candybar smartphone, the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max have a trick up their sleeves. As we have covered separately, both have small secondary displays surrounding their rear camera housings. Principally, Xiaomi advertises these secondary displays for use as incoming notifications or camera viewfinders.
However, the company has also created a special case that transforms the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max into quasi-retro gaming handhelds. Dubbed the Retro Handheld Console Case, the protective case adds ABXY buttons, a circular d-pad and start/select buttons. Also, Xiaomi has included a dedicated power button that serves as a game launcher shortcut without needing to turn on the Xiaomi 17 Pro or Xiaomi 17 Pro Max's main display.
Moreover, the Retro Handheld Console Case contains a 200 mAh built-in battery that Xiaomi claims lasts up to 40 days between charges. It is worth noting that the case prevents the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Xiaomi 17 Pro Max from charging wirelessly. The Retro Handheld Console Case retails for CNY 299 (~$42) in China. Unfortunately, it is currently unclear whether Xiaomi plans to offer the Retro Handheld Console Case globally.




















