Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 updates: Device may come with better earpiece

Xiaomi's bezel-less smartphone, the Xiaomi Mi Mix. The successor is expected to be launched this year. xiaomi-mi.com

Fans were happy with the design of the Xiaomi Mi Mix when it was launched last year. Although users were delighted with the almost bezel-free device with a 91.3 percent screen-to-body ratio, one of the issues they had was its poor sound quality. There are reports that Xiaomi is working on this for the second iteration of the Xiaomi Mi Mix.

A piezoelectric ceramic speaker was used for the Xiaomi Mi Mix instead of an earpiece in order to fit the design of its almost bezel-free screen. However, the technology not only vibrated the entire phone; it also produced bad sound output. With this, Xiaomi is reportedly working on an option that will address this issue as it develops the Xiaomi Mi Mix 2.

According to Sun Changxu, an industry analyst from WeChat, Xiaomi is working with AAC Technologies so they can incorporate a better earpiece for the Xiaomi Mi Mix 2. Referred to as the AAC Actuator, the technology is expected to produce a better sound quality even at a lower frequency. There are claims that it is closer to or even better than the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standard.

Meanwhile, rumors and speculations surfaced last month about the specifications and features of the Xiaomi Mi Mix 2, after Xiaomi CEO and Founder Lei Jun confirmed that successor device would be unveiled this year.

The Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 is anticipated to come with even less frame of up to 93 percent screen-to-body ratio. In a Weibo post, Jun revealed that Xiaomi is working once again with French designer Philippe Starck for Xiaomi Mi Mix 2. They are currently exploring options on how to make their plans come to life.

The upcoming device is also anticipated to come with active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display screen with curved edges finish. Under its hood, the Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 may sport the company's newest in-house chip called the Surge 1.

The Xiaomi Mi Mix 2 is anticipated to be launched sometime in the fourth quarter of this year.