The Xiaomi Mix Flip, the brand’s first compact folding flip phone, stands out for two main reasons that make it incredibly interesting. Firstly, it features a cover screen that is actually usable, and secondly, it omits a feature that has become a standard on most phones.
Surprisingly, the omission of this feature turns out to be a good decision. Let’s delve into what sets the Xiaomi Mix Flip apart and why it’s so appealing.
Introducing the Xiaomi Mix Flip
The external features include a 4.01-inch, 120Hz, 1392 x 1208 pixel “All Around Liquid” display, with the cameras integrated into the screen rather than having a cutout. Opening the phone reveals a 6.86-inch, 120Hz, 2912 x 1224 pixel display.
Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor with 12GB RAM and 512GB internal storage, the Mix Flip also boasts a 4780mAh battery with 67W fast charging using Xiaomi’s HyperCharge wired system. However, it does not support wireless charging. Other features include an aluminum frame, stereo speakers, Android 14 with Xiaomi’s HyperOS interface, and Wi-Fi 7.
The standout feature of the phone is its 50-megapixel Light Fusion 800 camera with an f/1.7 aperture and optical image stabilization (OIS), along with a 50MP telephoto camera that offers 2x and 4x quick access toggles in the app, omitting the usual wide-angle camera option.
The Xiaomi Mix Flip’s cover screen is where it truly shines. The screen efficiently utilizes the space with an app grid and a widget section above the cameras that displays weather, clock, and previous apps. The high resolution, brightness, and responsiveness make it a joy to use without any additional apps required.
The Mix Flip offers a selection of apps to use on the cover screen, including WhatsApp and Instagram, providing a smooth and responsive user experience without needing to open the phone for basic tasks. This sets it apart from its competitors like Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Motorola Razr Plus 2024.
Telephoto vs. Wide-angle
The telephoto camera on the Mix Flip offers a worthy alternative to a wide-angle camera, providing better-balanced and visually appealing 2x zoom photos compared to the main camera. While the main camera has exposure and contrast issues, the telephoto camera excels in these areas, delivering punchy colors and detailed shots.
While the presence of a telephoto camera offers an alternative to a wide-angle, advancements in phone photography suggest that excellent 2x shots can be achieved without the need for a dedicated telephoto lens. The Mix Flip’s camera performance requires refining, but the absence of a low-quality wide-angle camera is a welcome change.
Competition and Conclusion
Xiaomi’s Mix Flip faces tough competition from the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and the Motorola Razr 2024, but its unique approach without a wide-angle camera sets it apart. In terms of design and functionality, the Mix Flip offers a competitive alternative to its rivals.
While the phone may be slightly thicker and lack an official IP rating for water and dust resistance, its overall performance and features make it a worthy contender in the folding flip phone market. With pricing details yet to be announced, the Mix Flip could be a compelling choice for users looking for something different and innovative in the smartphone landscape.