Xiaomi to Join Foldable Phone Market... Similar to 'Galaxy Z Fold2'

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Eun-mo] Rumors are circulating that Xiaomi is preparing a foldable smartphone resembling Samsung Electronics' ‘Galaxy Z Fold2’.

IT media PhoneArena reported on the 18th (local time) that Xiaomi may release a foldable smartphone by revealing images of Xiaomi's prototype. Xiaomi had previously showcased its own vision by unveiling an out-folding concept phone in 2019, but it did not lead to an actual release afterward.

According to PhoneArena, photos of a prototype expected to be Xiaomi's first foldable smartphone were posted on a Chinese website. Based on the leaked images, the product's brand name is presumed to be ‘Xiaomi Mix’. The prototype's exterior adopts an in-folding design similar to the Galaxy Z Fold2, and it is estimated to be made of a combination of aluminum and glass. However, the displayed photos show no screen, suggesting it is a dummy product.

Earlier, photos of this prototype taken externally were also released. According to the images taken with a protective case on, the creases appear deeper compared to similar products like Huawei’s ‘Mate X’.

Xiaomi’s move comes amid the recent increase in foldable phone releases. Samsung Electronics, the leader in foldable phones, plans to launch three additional models this year, and Chinese company Oppo is expected to release its first foldable phone as early as April or during the second quarter. Oppo’s foldable phone is anticipated to be a clamshell in-folding type, slightly larger than the ‘Galaxy Z Flip’. Oppo secured first place in the Chinese domestic market in the first quarter of this year, surpassing Huawei.