POCO expands X series with new performance-focused X8 Pro lineup

POCO has introduced the POCO X8 Pro Series, expanding its smartphone portfolio with two new devices designed around high-performance hardware and gaming-focused features. The lineup includes the POCO X8 Pro Max and POCO X8 Pro, marking the first time the brand has introduced a Pro Max variant within the X series.

The move signals a shift in how POCO positions the X series, pushing the range further toward flagship-class specifications while maintaining a focus on accessibility for performance-focused users. The company describes the new models as combining high-end processing power, extended battery life, and upgraded display and audio capabilities.

“With the new POCO X8 Pro Series, we’ve made cutting-edge technology and flagship-level experiences more accessible to users around the world,” said Kang Lou, Senior Product Marketing Manager and Spokesperson at POCO Global. “For the first time, we are introducing our Pro Max model — POCO X8 Pro Max — to push the boundaries of extreme performance. At the same time, POCO X8 Pro delivers an all-around enhanced experience with exceptional value.”

Dimensity chipsets push the lineup toward flagship territory

Processing performance sits at the centre of the new devices. The POCO X8 Pro Max is powered by the Dimensity 9500s chipset built on a 3nm process and featuring a 4+4 all big core CPU architecture with clock speeds of up to 3.73GHz.

The device supports LPDDR5X 9600Mbps memory and UFS 4.1 storage, with POCO reporting an AnTuTu score of 3,085,998. The POCO X8 Pro uses the Dimensity 8500-Ultra mobile platform and achieves a 15.8% improvement in AnTuTu score compared with its predecessor, alongside a 25% increase in GPU performance.

Both models also support hardware-level ray tracing designed to improve lighting and reflections in compatible games. POCO pairs the hardware with a software layer called WildBoost Optimization, which predicts computing demand frame by frame to maintain stable performance during intensive gaming sessions.

Cooling architecture designed for sustained workloads

To maintain performance under sustained workloads, the devices use the company’s LiquidCool technology. The POCO X8 Pro Max integrates a 3D IceLoop cooling system with a 5,800mm² liquid cooling area and a specialised structure above the chipset designed to improve thermal efficiency.

The POCO X8 Pro uses a 5,300mm² dual-layer IceLoop cooling system intended to manage heat during extended gaming sessions or multitasking workloads. According to the company, the design can reduce system-on-chip temperatures by up to 3°C under heavy load.

Battery capacity becomes a defining feature

Battery capacity forms another key pillar of the series. The POCO X8 Pro Max features an 8,500mAh battery, the largest battery capacity used in a POCO smartphone lineup according to the company.

POCO states the battery can deliver up to two days of usage on a single charge under its internal testing conditions. The battery is also designed to retain more than 80% of its capacity after 1,600 charge cycles, which the company estimates to be roughly six years of regular use.

The POCO X8 Pro includes a 6,500mAh silicon-carbon battery designed to balance endurance with a smaller device footprint. Both devices support 100W HyperCharge and up to 27W wired reverse charging, alongside smart charging technology designed to manage temperature and power distribution.

Display, audio and durability upgrades

The POCO X8 Pro Max features a 6.83-inch display while the POCO X8 Pro uses a 6.59-inch panel. Both displays can reach peak brightness levels of up to 3,500 nits across part of the screen and support 3840Hz PWM dimming along with TÜV Rheinland eye-care certifications.

Audio capabilities are also expanded, with the POCO X8 Pro Max integrating dual 1115F symmetrical speakers with Hi-Res Audio and Dolby Atmos support. The system includes adaptive listening options such as a 400% volume boost and a low-volume mode designed for quieter listening environments.

Both devices use a metal frame paired with a fibreglass back and include a racetrack-inspired camera design with Dynamic RGB lighting effects that respond to notifications, charging activity, and other device functions.

Durability features include Corning Gorilla Glass 7i protection and a combination of IP66, IP68, IP69 and IP69K dust and water resistance ratings. The POCO X8 Pro Max also carries a 5-star SGS Premium Performance Certification verifying resistance to drops, crushing, and bending.

Imaging and software features expand the ecosystem

Both models include a 50MP main camera and a 20MP front camera. The POCO X8 Pro Max uses a Light Fusion 600 image sensor while the POCO X8 Pro integrates a Sony IMX882 sensor for the main camera.

Camera features include UltraSnap and Dynamic shots for capturing fast-moving subjects, alongside an AI Creativity Assistant designed to support editing and image refinement. The devices also allow seamless conversion between video and live photos.

The POCO X8 Pro Series runs on Xiaomi HyperOS 3 and integrates cross-device capabilities through Xiaomi HyperConnect. Additional features include Google Gemini integration, Circle to Search with Google, and a Ticket Purchase Mode designed to optimise device performance during high-demand ticket sales.

Connectivity options also include Xiaomi Offline Communication for voice calls without a network connection. The POCO X8 Pro Max additionally supports eSIM functionality intended to simplify carrier setup and international travel.

Availability and pricing

The POCO X8 Pro Max is available in Black, Blue, and White with configurations of 12GB RAM paired with either 256GB or 512GB storage. The POCO X8 Pro comes in Black, White, and Mint Green with options for 8GB or 12GB RAM and up to 512GB storage.

Recommended retail prices in Singapore start at S$589 for the POCO X8 Pro Max and S$469 for the POCO X8 Pro. Early bird pricing will be available from 17 March to 5 April through mi.com as well as the brand’s Shopee and Lazada stores.