Xiaomi has only just launched the Mi 4i, powered by an octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 615 processor. The rumored new device will be using a hexa-core Snapdragon 808 processor though, the same chip used in LG’s G4.
The 808 is significantly more powerful than the 615 despite having fewer cores. Regardless of this, its pricing means the new phone is expected to be priced similarly to the $242 tag on the Mi 4i.
The rest of the device could also have specifications akin to those of the Mi 4i which has 2GB RAM, a 1080p 5-inch display and 16GB of internal storage. It is unknown whether a new design and display will be used and there is also no word on whether it will have the same 13MP main camera as the Mi 4i.
News of the phone comes shortly after the release of the Mi Note Pro. This has been reported to be experiencing overheating issues with its octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor though, including one instance where an owner had to return his phone after it refused to turn on for three hours.
Xiaomi’s current phones run Android 5.0 Lollipop overlaid with the company’s own “MIUI 6” interface skin. Xiaomi is still viewed by many in the U.S. and Europe as a fledgling budget smartphone brand but it seems intent to prove its worth with some powerful, well-designed devices. It has the largest smartphone market share in China, above even the prized iPhone 6.
The International Business Times reports the news of the Snapdragon 808 Xiaomi comes from Gizmochina who cites a Chinese electronics analyst as posting the information on his Weibo account. Gizmochina suggests the new phone may be intended for China and other markets where the Mi 4i is not offered for sale. It is currently only available in India.
