Xiaomi has just released arguably their most highly-anticipated device for the year, the Xiaomi Mi 9. As per tradition, Xiaomi introduces the device as a truly affordable flagship that boasts impressive specs and performance across the field.
The phone features a 6.39-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a waterdrop notch to boot. The screen pushes 1080 x 2340p resolution and it gets Corning Gorilla Glass 6 protection – all signs lead to a competent flagship indeed.
At the back, the Mi 9 sports a glass back and aluminium frame – similar to that of the Samsung Galaxy 10. The phone is equipped with a triple-camera setup (48MP main + 16MP ultrawide-angle lens + 12MP telephoto lens), while the selfie camera is a capable 20MP lens.
Here comes the fun part: The Mi 9 is powered by the latest Snapdragon 855 chipset – this is telling of a proper flagship – along with either a 6GB + 64GB internal storage or 6GB + 128GB internal storage memory configuration.
What’s surprising is that Xiaomi has opted for a relatively small 3,300mAh battery for their new flagship – which means the Mi 9 has a smaller battery compared to its predecessor. Not cool Xiaomi, not cool. There’s also a lack of a headphone jack as standard of Xiaomi, but a USB-C to 3.5mm dongle is provided.
The phone sports a Type-C port and supports Quick Charge 4+ fast charge. You’ll also get an in-screen fingerprint sensor, which our tests with the Chinese OEM model proved to be an improvement from the older model. The Mi 9 also supports wireless charging which is a big plus considering its price.
The phone will be available in two colours – Piano Black and Ocean Blue, while a third colour, the Lavender Violet will come at a later date. The 6GB + 64GB ROM variant is priced at RM1,699 and will be exclusively available on Lazada from April 6 onwards, while the 6GB + 128GB ROM variant is priced at RM1,999 and will be available at Mi stores on April 13, while pre-orders will begin on April 6 which will also net you a Xiaomi 20W HighSpeed Wireless Charger.
A special edition of the Mi 9 with a transparent back and 12GB + 256GB ROM will be available soon.