Xiaomi plans to launch more than 10 5G smartphones in 2020

Xiaomi is planning to ramp up its 5G device portfolio by launching more than 10 5G smartphones in 2020, company CEO Lei Jun announced during his speech at the World Internet conference in Wuzhen, China.

Commercial 5G networks are yet to launch in China. However, the Xiaomi head remarked (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 strong demand, the Chinese firm confirmed that it will launch 5G smartphones in the premium, mid-range, and low-end price segments next year.

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

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

Besides launching the 5G-enabled Mi 9 Pro in its domestic market last month, Xiaomi already sells the Mi Mix 3 5G in Europe. Its recent 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

Clearly, Xiaomi is looking to cash in on the 5G gravy train. Its bold move to launch 10 new 5G phones comes on the back of its declining market share in China.

According to market research firm Canalys, HUAWEI has picked up steam in China, while Xiaomi saw declining shipments across 2019. The ballooning sales of HUAWEI devices in China has been attributed to patriotic demand for the brand due to its recent US ban.

However, Xiaomi’s presence in regions like India and Europe continues to stay strong. While India is not a 5G-ready market right now, Europe is, and Xiaomi is capitalizing on HUAWEI’s fading popularity in the region.

Then again, HUAWEI has also promised that it will up its 5G device portfolio for 2020. The company recently announced it will launch more affordable 5G smartphones next year.

Clearly, competition between Xiaomi and HUAWEI is not about to subside anytime soon.

Are you looking forward to more 5G phones from Xiaomi or are you still not sold on 5G technology? Let us know in the comments section below.