Chinese smartphone giant Xiaomi is to expand its horizons, confirming plans to move into UK and US markets next week.
According to the Samsung and Huawei rival, the Xiaomi Mi Store will launch in beta form in select western markets on Tuesday, May 19.
Although marking the first instance that UK and US consumers have been offered direct access to the company’s affordable wares, Xiaomi has stressed that devices will only be available in “very limited quantities”.
Those holding out of getting their hands on the company’s flagship phones, such as the recently unveiled Xiaomi Mi4i, might be a little disappointed, however.
On day one, only the company’s array of accessories will be available for purchase.
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“Very limited quantities will be available on 19 May, 1pm CEST. Sign up for a Mi Account (https://account.xiaomi.com/pass/register?&_locale=en) now and log in early before the sale starts.”
Related: Xiaomi Mi4 review
It is believed the manufacturer is looking to gauge western interest in the Xiaomi brand before committing to the strain of bringing its handsets to a global audience.
The 1pm Central European Standard Time (CEST) store launch will bean a midday release here on British shores.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.