Xiaomi ups premium play in India handset market with Mi Mix 2

New Delhi: Chinese handset maker Xiaomi has forayed into the premium handset market in India, a segment dominated by Samsung and Apple, with the launch of Mi Mix 2 smartphone that will retail for Rs 35,999.

The Mi Mix 2, which features a full-screen display and a ceramic back, is the most expensive phone in Xiaomi's India portfolio of smartphones.

"This is our most premium offering in India and an amalgamation of art and technology. It competes with the flagship devices of many players in terms of specifications," Xiaomi Vice President and India Managing Director Manu Jain told PTI.

He added that with Mi Mix 2, Xiaomi has ensured that it delivers on its philosophy of making the best technology available at affordable prices.

Apart from giants like Samsung and Apple, the premium smartphone category also includes devices from the stables of OnePlus, LG, Sony and HTC.

The premium smartphone segment in the country is still small with low sales volumes. However, various market reports suggest that the segment is growing in double digits.

The Mi Mix 2 features a 5.99-inch (18:9) display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 processor, 6GB RAM, 128GB internal storage, 12MP rear and 5MP front camera, and 3,400 mAh battery.