In India, Xiaomi is currently the market leader in smartphone sales. However, a significant share of sales is generated by low-cost entry- and mid-range models. The flagship segment is not doing well, with fewer Mi and MIX series sold than planned. If they choose a more expensive appliance, wealthier Indian residents are looking for a different brand. Xiaomi has continued to adapt its sales strategy in India, with the ongoing launch of the Mi MIX series and the Mi flagship models. The Mi 5 was launched first, and after a failed attempt, the same happened with the Mi 6. It's a similar story with the Mi MIX 2S and Mi MIX 2. While China is selling well with the higher-end models, and we could also mention Hungary, India has not been able to increase sales despite various discounts and credit schemes. But the manufacturer is determined not to give up. Latest rumours suggest that a modified (Lite) version of the Mi 8 SE could be launched in July, Mi 8i under the name. This is not confirmed information, just "rumours" from Indian dealers, which have not yet been verified by the manufacturer. The "i" versions have always been the versions for the Indian market. This highlighting also means more prestige for the Indian population (and for us Europeans, it is also a signal not to choose this one, especially because of MIUI updates) The rumour also mentions a URL with a photo of the Mi 8 SE and a fragment of the specifications, only under the name Mi 8i. Xiaomi is silent. Since the announcement of the Mi 8 trio, no official sales information has been released in India, but it would be a logical step to introduce a Mi 8 SE version - slightly tweaked. The SoC is likely to remain the Snapdragon 710, but there could be a tweak in the RAM/ROM space. But it's also possible that the SD660 will be put in. In terms of pricing, they are only speculating, but it could definitely be successful at a low price (around 266 or 296 $). This is great value for money if you were to go with the Snapdragon 710. It's also likely that Xiaomi will launch the Mi Band 3 with the phone. Just as a special version of the Mi Band 2 was unveiled (with a local celebrity's name tag), somewhat dumbed down, we can expect a well-priced version without NFC here.
We will be sure to publish more detailed information as soon as it becomes available.
