Commercial 5G networks are yet to release in China. In spite of this, the Xiaomi head mentioned (via Reuters) that demand for its first 5G smartphone in China, the Mi 9 Pro 5G, has already exceeded the company’s expectations. On the back of this great demand, the Chinese firm confirmed that it will launch 5G smart phones in the premium, mid-range, and low-end price segments next year.

 

While China is poised for getting 9 million 5G subscribers as soon as services go live in the country, the number of 5G connections worldwide are believed to reach 1.4 billion by 2025.

 

“People in the industry fear that next year 4G models won’t sell,” said Jun.

 

Apart from launching the 5G-enabled Mi 9 Pro in its domestic market last month, Xiaomi already sells the Mi Mix 3 5G in Europe. Its latest smartphone with a wraparound display, the Mi Mix Alpha, also supports 5G networks and is set to launch in China early next year.

 

Xiaomi, Huawei and the China factor

 

Obviously, Xiaomi is considering to cash in on the 5G gravy train. Its bold move to launch 10 new 5G phones comes on the back of its decreasing market share in China. In line with market research firm Canalys, Huawei has picked up steam in China, whilst Xiaomi saw dropping shipments across 2019. The ballooning sales of Huawei devices in China has been attributed to patriotic demand for the brand as a result of its recent US ban.

 

Nevertheless, Xiaomi’s presence in regions like India and Europe continues on to stay strong. Even though India is not a 5G-ready market right now, Europe is, and Xiaomi is capitalizing on Huawei’s diminishing attraction in the region. In spite of this, Huawei has also vowed that it will up its 5G device portfolio for 2020. The company recently announced it will probably release more affordable 5G smartphones next year. Clearly, competition between Xiaomi and Huawei is not about to subside anytime soon.

 

TRONSERVE