REDMI Note 15 5G: India Launch, POCO Rebrands & More!
REDMI Note 15 5G Series: India Launch and a Throwback to Classic Designs
Get ready, Xiaomi fans! The REDMI Note 15 5G series is gearing up for an exciting launch in India, slated for 2026. But there’s a twist! Xiaomi India is seemingly taking a page from their own playbook, bringing back the region-specific device concept we saw with the REDMI Note 10 and 11 series. This means some models will be rebranded under the POCO name and tailored with unique specs for the Indian market. Let’s dive into what we know about this intriguing strategy and what to expect from the REDMI Note 15 5G series.
The REDMI Note 15 5G Series: A Tale of Two Regions
While the REDMI Note 15 5G series was initially launched in China with HyperOS 2.2 based on Android 15 in August 2025, the Indian version promises some interesting changes. Xiaomi is opting for globally adjusted variants in India, tweaking the hardware, software, and even cameras to better suit local networks and competition. This isn’t entirely new, as we saw similar approaches with the Redmi Note 10 and 11 series, where chipsets were swapped to prioritize 5G compatibility and cater to Indian users. This throwback to classic designs also helps Xiaomi make waves and stay competitive, as discussed in the post Redmi Note 15 and Redmi Note 15 Pro | Redmi Note 15 Pro: 2026.
Rebranding and Model Numbers: Decoding the Strategy
So, how exactly is this playing out? Here’s the breakdown:
- REDMI Note 15 5G (base):
This model will be rebranded as the POCO M8 Pro in India. Its build number is OS2.0.201.0.VPQINXM. The Chinese variant (25098RA98C) will not have a REDMI Note equivalent in India, making it a global exclusive. - REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G:
This will arrive as the POCO X8, with build OS2.0.201.0.VPPINXM. Similar to the base model, the Chinese version (25080RABDC) is destined for other markets. - REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G:
Good news for REDMI purists! This model will retain its original name in India, sporting build OS2.0.204.0.VPRINXM and model number 2510ERA8BI (the “I” confirms its Indian variant).
Only the Pro+ retains its original name, while the base and Pro get POCO makeovers. Are you intrigued by the potential for new devices and their “hecho para India” optimizations, such as performance, cameras, battery, display, and software?
POCO
What to Expect from the India-Specific REDMI Note 15 5G Series?
Xiaomi seems to be aiming for a “best of both worlds” approach by offering tailored specs for the Indian market. Here’s a sneak peek at what we might see:
- SoC and Performance:
Rumors point to a Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 for the Note 15 (perfect for gaming and 5G), a Dimensity 7400-Ultra for the Pro, and a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 for the Pro+ with boosted AI capabilities. - Cameras:
Could we see a massive 200MP main sensor on the Pro and Pro+ models? This would be a significant upgrade from the 50MP sensors in the Chinese versions, potentially using Sony sensors for improved low-light performance. - Battery and Charging:
Leaks suggest a whopping 7,000 mAh battery with 45W charging for the Pro and a blazing-fast 90W charging for the Pro+. This would be a game-changer for heavy users! Xiaomi is clearly focusing on improvements, and the Redmi Turbo 5 Pro Leaked: Massive 9000mAh Battery & 100W Charging is a sign of what’s to come. - Display:
Expect vibrant 6.83″ AMOLED displays with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 3,200 nits on the Pro models, protected by Gorilla Glass. - Software:
The phones will likely launch with HyperOS 2.2 based on Android 15, but keep an eye out for potential upgrades to HyperOS 3 at launch!
Model Numbers: The Key to Unlocking the Puzzle
The model numbers are crucial for understanding Xiaomi’s strategy. Chinese models end in “C,” while Indian variants use “I” and “26” prefixes (indicating 2026):
| Model | Chinese Model Number | India/Global Model Number | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| REDMI Note 15 5G | 25098RA98C | 26011RN82I | Rebranded as POCO M8 Pro; no “RN” in India for Chinese version. |
| REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G | 25080RABDC | 26012RN62I | Rebranded as POCO X8; global variants include 26012RN62G. |
| REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G | 2510ERA8BC | 2510ERA8BI | Direct launch as REDMI; BIS certified in India. |
These codes, confirmed by leakers and certifications, confirm the POCO rebrands and India-specific focus. The POCO Pad X1 Spotted with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 on Geekbench is further proof of new devices in the pipeline, so fans are sure to be happy.
A “Note Made in India” Revival?
The REDMI Note 15 5G series’ India launch is poised to be an interesting one. With the REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G keeping its name, and the base and Pro models being reborn as POCO devices, Xiaomi is clearly betting on the “made for India” approach. The debut is expected between December 2025 and January 2026, so stay tuned for official teasers! If you are interested in getting more insights on the company, please check the Xiaomi tag.
Source: HyperOS Insider
