Xiaomi Mi Mix smartphone launched with zero bezels and edgeless design

Looks like those rumours about a bezel-less smartphone from Xiaomi indeed turned out to be true. After the launch of Xiaomi’s Note 7 lookalike, the Mi Note 2, the company also unveiled what it called a “concept smartphone”. The phablet-sized device is called the Mi Mix and as of now it seems like the perfect mix of smartphone, software and some impressive technology. Basically, it is the stuff we wanted to see from Xiaomi all along and it will go on sale in China starting 4 November. In a sea of flagship smartphones that seems like the same old boring stuff all over again, it was indeed refreshing to see a new take on design and some impressive technology showcased by Xiaomi at their China launch today.  The design does look jaw-dropping. While we have yet to see some live images of the device (concept smartphone), the phablet will be available for sale and has been priced at RMB 3499 (roughly Rs 34,513) for the 4GB RAM and 128GB storage, while there is also RMB 3999 Mi MIX (roughly Rs 39,445) with 18k gold inserts near the camera along with 6GB RAM and 256GB storage. While the design does look refreshing, it takes some inspiration from the Sharp Aquos Crystal 2. There’s a 6.4-inch display with an edge to edge design, meaning there are no bezels at the top and sides. What you also get is a high screen-to-body ratio at 91.3 percent (the iPhone 7 Plus comes in a 67.7 percent).  The body which includes the frame, buttons and the front and back screens is all made of ceramic. Renowned designer Philippe Starck is said to be involved with the design process of the smartphone. Talking about ceramic, what do you do when you have a no bezels at top? Well, Xiaomi seems to have come up with a solution for this and it called piezoelectric ceramic acoustic technology.  The technology basically allows for conversion of electrical signals into mechanical energy, which then transmits the waves into the ceramic body allowing the user to hear the audio without the need for a speaker. Coming to the specifications, the smartphone seems to pack in details that are similar to the Mi Note 2 . It features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 chipset (Daydream compatible) with 4GB/6GB RAM and is available in both 128GB and 256GB options. There is a 16MP PDAF rear camera and 5MP front facing camera. Apart from the usual Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, there is also full NFC functionality with a high-precision GPS module.  Lei Jun, CEO and co-founder of Xiaomi said, “Xiaomi is in a position to explore the frontiers of innovation and deliver even more amazing features to our users. We are truly excited at the limitless possibilities that technology presents to us. Mi Note 2 takes our flagship lineup to the next level, and Mi MIX is a glimpse at what the phone of the future looks like.”