Xiaomi Unveils Powerful $1,600 Rival to Samsung as Stock Soars 300% – Here’s What You Need to Know!

BARCELONA — Xiaomi has unveiled its new flagship smartphones, the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra, as it aims to take on Samsung’s dominance in the market.

These new models were revealed at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. The Xiaomi 15 is priced at 999 euros ($1,047), while the 15 Ultra starts at 1,499 euros ($1,571).

Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Mobile Platform, both devices boast advanced features, with the Ultra model offering enhanced camera capabilities and a larger display.

Ben Wood, a chief analyst at CCS Insight, mentioned that Xiaomi is transitioning from budget phones to premium models, which appeals to wealthier customers in Europe.

According to the International Data Corporation, Xiaomi’s global smartphone shipments rose by 15.4% in 2024, surpassing competitors like Samsung and Apple. The company’s market share increased to 13.6%, up from 12.5% in 2023.

Founded in 2010, Xiaomi began by offering affordable smartphones and has since expanded internationally, focusing on Europe. The company has also developed a wide range of connected devices, from TVs to smartwatches.

Last year, Xiaomi entered the electric vehicle market with the SU7, showcasing this innovation at the Mobile World Congress in 2024. This move aims to broaden its brand appeal beyond traditional electronics.

Francisco Jeronimo from IDC noted that this entry into EVs has positively impacted Xiaomi’s reputation. He believes the initiative is smart, stating that if a brand can make a car, it likely excels at making phones too.

Xiaomi has seen nearly a 300% increase in stock value over the past year, with its shares reaching record highs this week. The company is optimistic about sustaining this growth through its new smartphones and the upcoming SU7 Ultra, an upgraded version of its electric car.

However, Xiaomi faces stiff competition in the smartphone sector, particularly from Samsung, as well as other Chinese brands like Oppo and Honor that are also eager to expand their market share.

Wood points out that the premium smartphone market is becoming increasingly crowded. For Xiaomi to grow, it needs to gain traction at the expense of other Android competitors, especially Samsung.