Are Xiaomi and Mi the same company? I’m seeing both names used interchangeably when referring to smartphones, smart home devices, and other electronics. Sometimes it seems like “Mi” is used for specific product lines, like the Mi Band or Mi Airdots, while “Xiaomi” is used for the overall corporation. Are they actually the same entity, just with different branding strategies, or is there a more complex relationship? Is “Mi” a subsidiary, a division, or just an older brand name that’s being phased out in favor of “Xiaomi”? I’m particularly interested in understanding if the warranty and support are handled the same way regardless of whether a product is branded “Mi” or “Xiaomi.”
Answer
Yes, Xiaomi and Mi are essentially the same company. Xiaomi is the overarching corporate name, while “Mi” was a brand name used for many of Xiaomi’s products. Over time, Xiaomi has increasingly moved away from using the “Mi” branding, particularly for its higher-end products. This shift aims to streamline the brand and project a more unified image. While some products still bear the “Mi” name, especially in certain regions or product categories like ecosystem devices, the trend is towards using the Xiaomi name across the board. The company’s official name remains Xiaomi Corporation.