Xiaomi Mi Store launches in the UK and US, stocks quickly disappear

The Chinese Apple has finally entered western markets, with the Xiaomi Mi Store launching in the UK and US.
Having gone live earlier today, May 19, the Xiaomi Mi Store briefly offered access to the company’s wide-arching array of accessories, before the limited stocks quickly dried up.
Letting eager consumers snap up the firm’s array of headphones, battery boosters and fitness trackers, availability was seriously restricted, with stocks of the $14.99 (£9.67) Xiaomi Mi Band selling out within minutes.
Despite offering a number of peripherals, the beta launch of the Xiaomi online store failed to bring the company’s hugely successful handset lines to the western world.
Confirming plans for the international launch trial late last week, a Xiaomi spokesperson stated: “
Foreseeing the stock shortages, the company added: “Very limited quantities will be available on 19 May.”
It is currently unclear when, or indeed if, stocks will be replenished for the devices’ European and US availability.
As well as hitting the UK and US, the Mi Store today opened its doors in France and Germany.
Related: Xiaomi Mi4 review
It is believed that today’s trial run will precede a wider international push which will see Xiaomi fully launch its handset lines outside of its native China.