The prototype of Xiaomi Mi MIX foldable smartphone appeared in the first live photos

At the beginning of this year, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun confirmed the launch of a new model from the revolutionary Mi MIX series. As we’re learning, it’s said to be the brand’s first foldable smartphone.

It seems we’ll get two displays

In the photos below, we can see the back panel of an as-yet-unannounced device. The opening mechanism is very similar to what competing foldable smartphones from Samsung and Huawei already offer. The two parts of the device are connected by a flexible hinge, the inner surface of which is made up of a large display.

The back panel features glass and a clearly visible camera module. The lenses unusually stick out above the surrounding surface of the device, making it more prone to scratches. Since this is still only a prototype, it doesn’t have to match the final design.

Xiaomi Mi MIX 4 will be equipped, following Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2, with an outer display stretched across the entire front. After unfolding it, we should be able to access the internal display—turning the smartphone into a small tablet. That leads to higher productivity, and the user gets all the benefits of a tablet.

The internals will be top-notch

All Mi MIX series models so far have delivered the best specs in their class. We still don’t know a lot of details, but we expect the latest processor Snapdragon 888 with 5G network support. There’s no doubt the smartphone will also get top-of-the-line memory and cameras.

In terms of cameras, it will be the main 108 MPx sensor, and Android 11 with the MIUI 12 overlay shouldn’t be missing either. The manufacturer will put a strong emphasis on a high-capacity battery, along with fast wired and wireless charging.

Expectations are high

Xiaomi is going after the title of the best foldable smartphone of the year. We’ll see how it handles the foldable display technology, on which especially the first generation of Samsung Galaxy Fold stumbled.

It could win you over with a better price than the competition. So far, the leaks suggested the first half of the year, but they turned out to be incorrect, and the launch is expected in the second half. We’re really looking forward to the debut of the first foldable smartphone, and we’ll keep you updated about its release.