Xiaomi sets sights on Australia, expect Xiaomi Mi 9 to hit market 'soon'

Update, April 18, 2019 (3:15AM ET): Panmi has confirmed to Android Authority that it’s signed a deal to distribute Xiaomi products in Australia, while also confirming that it runs the Mi-store.com.au website.

A Panmi representative said the Xiaomi Mi 9 will be available in the country “soon.” So those wanting a sensibly priced Snapdragon 855 flagship won’t have to wait too long.

Holding out for the Redmi Note 7 series or Xiaomi phones on Optus? Well, the Panmi rep was unable to comment on these topics. But he noted that Xiaomi products are also available via Amazon Australia, Catch, and eBay. Devices on offer via these websites include the Pocophone F1, Redmi S2, and the Mi Box.

Original article, April 16, 2019 (5:53AM ET): Xiaomi’s expansion strategy has paid dividends in recent years, as it successfully landed in various European markets. The company isn’t stopping there though, as it’s reportedly planning to launch in Australia.

According to the Australian Financial Review (h/t: AusDroid), the Chinese manufacturer is teaming up with a distributor called Panmi. The plan will apparently see Panmi and Xiaomi bring an “extensive range” of products to the country by the middle of the year.

It seems like Panmi quietly announced a partnership with Xiaomi last month though, according to the Mi-store.com.au website. The press release on the website notes that Panmi will run the online Mi Store and several authorized Mi Stores across the country.

Panmi’s release also noted that it’s bringing the 6GB+128GB Mi Mix 3 (AU$949/$678), Mi Band 3 (AU$59.95/$43), Mi Electric Scooter (AU$799/$571) and several other gadgets to the country. The Australian Mi Store also seems to offer several other devices, such as the Mi 8 Lite (AU$449/$321), Redmi Note 5 (AU$399/$285), Redmi S2 (AU$299/$214), and Mi Laser Projector (AU$2,999/$2,143). The latter device is pretty noteworthy, but the lack of recent phones is particularly disappointing.

The Australian Financial Review adds that Xiaomi is in talks with local network Optus to range the brand’s smartphones. A carrier deal would result in greater visibility, while also allowing people to buy Xiaomi phones on contract if they so wish.

We’ve contacted Panmi for confirmation of the deal and to find out whether they’ll bring other Xiaomi phones to the country. We’ll update the article if/when we receive a response from the firm. Nev

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