Days before the Mobile World Congress, Xiaomi has today announced the launch of Mi 9 — the latest addition to its more premium, MI line of smartphones. The stand out feature of the phone is a triple camera setup, which Xiaomi boasts of, but something which has been seen on a lot of budget phones already.
The phone has come up in three models. These are called the Mi 9, Mi 9 SE and Mi 9 transparent, with the last one being the most premium of all. Mi 9 is priced from RMB 2999, or $445, and the Mi 9SE is priced from RMB 1999, or $300. The transparent version is priced at RMB 3999, $595.
All the three Mi 9 models are powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 855 mobile platform. In terms of overall form factor, design cues are evident to have been taken from Apple, with thin bezels and minimal thickness. The Mi 9 comes with a new AI triple camera containing the latest 48-megapixel Sony IMX586 sensor, and is the world’s first smartphone to feature 20W wireless charging. Mi 9 Transparent Edition comes with 12GB of RAM, and features a 7P lens for its camera with a maximum aperture of f/1.47. It also comes with the flagship-level IMX586 camera sensor, and is targeted at those who like a smaller form factor.
The flagship Mi 9 has a 6.39-inch 19.5:9 Samsung AMOLED Dot Drop display on its front. Under this display is a new in-screen fingerprint sensor. Xiaomi claims, that this new sensor unlocks the phone up to 25% faster than the previous generation. Holding the fingerprint sensor after unlocking will also bring up a new quick interface that lets the user quickly access common features like QR code scanning and performing an internet search.
A uniqueness where Mi 9 scores well is the charging mechanism. The smartphone features a large 3300mAh battery, featuring a fast charging solution for both wired and wireless charging. Xiaomi claims, that this solution has received certification from renowned German institution TUV Rheinland for safe quick charging.
The 27W wired charging supports Qualcomm’s QC4+ standard, and enables Mi 9 to safely charge to 70% in just 30 minutes, and fully charge in 60 mins.
A new wireless charging coil enhances the wireless charging efficiency and stability of the Mi 9, so it can hit the highest 20W wireless charging at its peak. Mi 9 is also the first smartphone certified by Qi EPP in China, which makes it compatible with other wireless charging pads.
While global availability is a mystery, Chinese folks can get their hands on the Mi 9 starting February 26th.
