Xiaomi Mi Mix Alpha debuts with wrap-around display, 108MP camera

24 September 2019

Xiaomi has always been saving its most exciting technologies for the Mix lineup and the just-released Mi Mix Alpha did not disappoint - it has a wrap-around display, 108 MP camera and the latest chipset by Qualcomm.

However, there is a massive caveat that we just have to mention - it will cost CNY19,999 - that is over $2,800/€2,500. Yes, the Mi Mix Alpha is more expensive than the Samsung Galaxy Fold and the yet-unreleased Huawei Mate X.

The gorgeous looking phone will have Snapdragon 855 Plus chipset, 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage. The battery is 4,050 nano silicone cathode power cell with 40W wired fast-charging. However, this is the less intriguing part - the more interesting is the actual display that goes all around the phone.

Xiaomi says this design allows it to achieve a screen to body ratio of 180%. It's higher than even the Mate X foldable phone, although you can't unwrap the Alpha and get one giant continuous panel.

The panel has 2.15 mm thick bezels on top and bottom and a camera strip on the back, with the lenses protected by a sapphire glass. The edges are pressure-sensitive and will provide notifications. There is no speaker or any other holes - the proximity sensor is ultrasonic, audio is available thanks to “Display Acoustic Technology” and there is advanced palm rejection technology.

The part of the display on the back is said to have AI algorithms that detect key scenarios like calling a cab, using your Xiaomi devices at home with the Mi Home app or when you need it to pull up flight itinerary. Of course, you can also use the backside for selfies - now you have all the 108 megapixels for your mugshots.

The main camera has a huge 1/1.33” type sensor and a Tetracell technology, which is meant to output 27MP pixel-binned shots. The Ultrawide shooter below has a 20 MP imager and 117-degree FoV, while the third snapper is a 12 MP telephoto lens.

You would think this device is extremely fragile, but Xiaomi did its best to protect it - the frame is an aerospace-grade alloy, while the back strip is ceramic with already mentioned sapphire glass protection for the shooters. If you are willing to shed the massive amount of money, you have to wait until December when the phone will hit the shelves.