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Xiaomi Mi Note


Chinese technology giant Xiaomi has released its newest flagship Android handset, the Mi Note — a 5.7 inch premium phablet that boasts some impressive technical specifications.


Its size is designed to go up against the likes of Apple's iPhone 6 Plus, and the Samsung Galaxy Note. Xiaimi's entire strategy is to make the best, most beautifully designed Androids possible — and sell them at a fraction of the price of Apple's iPhones.


Xiaomi has previously attracted Apple's ire by borrowing heavily from the Cupertino company's designs; Apple designer Jony Ive has gone far to accuse the Chinese company of "theft." But this time around, it's Xiaomi drawing comparisons between the companies' devices — in order to boast about their handset's design.












The device offers 3GB RAM, a long-lasting 3000mAh battery, 13-megapixel rear-facing camera and 1080p display, and will retail for 2,299 yuan ($370). For 3,299 ($520) customers can also buy the Mi Pro model, which offers a higher-resolution 1440p display, 4GB of RAM, and a more powerful processor. In comparison, a contract-free iPhone 6 Plus will set you back $749.


Xiaomi has yet to attempt to make inroads in the West. But as a high-end but affordable alternative to Apple's pricey devices, it's poised to challenge Apple in Eastern markets. The simple design also shows the company is no longer restricting itself to copying Apple products.


Available in either black or white, here's how it looks:


Xiaomi Mi Note


The Chinese company also boasted about its Sony-manufactured camera, featuring optical image stabilisation:


Xiaomi Mi Note Camera


Xiaomi's fans are famously fanatical about the company, frequently travelling great distances to attend new launches. The launch for the Xiaomi Mi Note was a suitably glitzy affair:


Xiaomi Mi Note Launch


The company debuted other products last night too, including over-ear headphones:


Xiaomi headphone launch


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