The Good:
- Xiaomi’s introduction of its first flip phone offers consumers more variety in smartphone choices.
- The Mix Flip’s integration with a portable printer for instant photo printing enhances user experience and creativity.
- Keeping the price of the new Mix Fold 4 unchanged from the previous version makes advanced foldable technology more accessible.
- Xiaomi’s commitment to innovation is evident in features like simultaneous translation on the Mix Fold 4, showcasing technological advancements.
The Bad:
- The pricing of the Mix Flip at 5,999 yuan ($825) might be considered high compared to other flip phones in the market.
- Limited availability of the portable printer could frustrate potential buyers interested in the integrated printing feature.
- High demand might lead to supply chain issues, as warned by Xiaomi’s founder Lei Jun regarding the portable printer.
The Gist:
Xiaomi has launched its first flip phone alongside an updated version of its foldable phone. The Mix Flip introduces integrated instant printing capabilities, while the Mix Fold 4 continues Xiaomi’s trend of offering foldable smartphones with innovative features like simultaneous translation.
The Take:
Xiaomi’s recent product launch marks a significant milestone for the company as it ventures into the flip phone market with the Mix Flip. Priced at 5,999 yuan ($825), this innovative device is designed to cater to a growing segment of consumers who appreciate the nostalgic form factor of flip phones, combined with modern technological advancements. The Mix Flip stands out not only for its design but also for its unique feature: the ability to instantly print pictures using a separately sold portable printer. This feature is poised to attract photography enthusiasts and social media aficionados who value the immediacy of physical photo prints.
The Mix Flip’s ability to print photos instantly via the portable printer, priced at 499 yuan ($68) including photo paper, adds a creative dimension to the smartphone market. This innovation blends the digital and physical worlds, allowing users to capture and cherish moments in a tangible form. The integration of such a feature could be particularly appealing for events and gatherings, where instant photo printing can enhance the user experience and create lasting memories. The move aligns with Xiaomi’s strategy to diversify its product offerings and create a comprehensive ecosystem that meets various consumer needs.
In addition to the Mix Flip, Xiaomi has also launched the latest version of its foldable phone, the Mix Fold 4, at the same price as its predecessor, 8,999 yuan. By maintaining the price point, Xiaomi ensures that its advanced foldable technology remains accessible to a broader audience. The Mix Fold 4 boasts impressive features, including the ability to handle simultaneous translation with one language displayed on each side of the screen. This feature highlights Xiaomi’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology into its devices, making them not only versatile but also indispensable tools for communication in a globalized world.
At the product launch event, Xiaomi’s founder Lei Jun emphasized the technological advancements of the Mix Fold 4 but also candidly addressed the potential supply constraints for the portable printer. He warned that supplies might be tight, indicating a high demand for the new accessory. This transparency is crucial as it sets realistic expectations for consumers and highlights the challenges that tech companies often face with new product launches. Ensuring a steady supply chain and meeting consumer demand will be critical for Xiaomi to capitalize on the initial excitement generated by these new products.
The launch event also served as a platform for Lei Jun to reflect on Xiaomi’s broader strategic goals and its journey over the past few years. He recounted how U.S. sanctions in January 2021 prompted Xiaomi’s board to explore new business avenues, leading to the decision to enter the electric vehicle market. In March, Xiaomi released its first electric car, the SU7 sedan, priced competitively against Tesla’s Model 3. The SU7 has seen strong initial sales, with cumulative deliveries exceeding 30,000 vehicles and an ambitious target of 100,000 deliveries by November, a month ahead of schedule.
To meet the growing demand for its electric vehicles, Xiaomi has doubled the shifts at its factory in southern Beijing to 16 hours a day. The factory employs around 2,000 human workers and 700 robots, showcasing Xiaomi’s blend of human expertise and automation. The company’s investment in its manufacturing capabilities underscores its commitment to scaling production efficiently while maintaining quality standards. Updates to the SU7 in August are expected to include new features, such as voice control from the outside, further enhancing the vehicle’s appeal.
Lei Jun’s speech also highlighted Xiaomi’s ambitious plans for the future. He announced that the company aims to develop the fastest four-door electric car to drive the Nurburgring race track in Germany within the next decade. Testing for a new race car version of the SU7 is set to begin in October, illustrating Xiaomi’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance in the electric vehicle market.
Reflecting on his personal journey, Lei shared how an accident three years ago led him to explore the automotive industry. His hands-on approach, which included driving over 170 different cars and obtaining a race car license, demonstrates his commitment to understanding and excelling in the new market. This personal narrative adds a human touch to Xiaomi’s corporate strategy, emphasizing the passion and dedication behind the company’s ventures.
Xiaomi’s ability to adapt and innovate in response to external challenges, such as the U.S. sanctions, is a testament to its resilience and forward-thinking approach. The company’s diverse product portfolio, ranging from smartphones and portable printers to electric vehicles, positions it well to capture a wide range of consumer interests and needs. By continuously pushing the envelope in technology and design, Xiaomi aims to remain at the forefront of the tech industry, delivering value and innovation to its customers.
