Xiaomi announces the Redmi Note 3 for international markets

Hugo Barra, Global VP of Xiaomi made full use of his time on stage earlier today. The exec rolled around in the company’s Ninebot mini high-fiving and networking with eager Mi fans. He spent most of his time on stage talking about how the global variant of Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 that outperforms the Nexus 6P and the OnePlus 2.

Launched in front of a huge crowd in India, the Redmi Note 3 runs a Snapdragon 650 processor (formerly known as the 618). In terms of benchmarks, it punches high above its weight, thanks to the ARM Cortex-A72 two BIG cores – beating devices that run the Snapdragon 810 and the Snapdragon 808.

It’ll come in two variants 2GB/16GB and a 3GB/32GB for RAM and internal storage, respectively. There will also be microSD card expandability in the hybrid 4G LTE enabled dual-SIM slots on the smartphone. On the screen that sizes in at 5.5-inches, you’ll be viewing everything in a Full HD (1920 x 1080) display.

For users who love taking photos, the Redmi Note 3 has a 16-megapixel rear sensor with a f/2.0 aperture and PDAF (phase detection autofocus). Under the dual-LED flash module, there’s a round fingerprint sensor that has Xiaomi quoting a 0.3 second unlocking time.

Aside from biometric security, that fingerprint sensor will help you take photos on your selfie and rear camera as well. In MIUI 7, there will be an additional option to use App lock to secure apps and unlock them with your fingers. Mr Barra also decided to try out unlocking his Redmi Note 3 with his lips – it worked but only with his lower lip.

Moving from the metal-clad rear to the front, the top right will greet you with a 5-megapixel camera shutter for your selfies. Another highlight is the chipset’s ability to support VoLTE (voice over LTE) and faster LTE speeds (Cat.7).

Powering this Android 5.1 Lollipop running device is a relatively large 4,050 mAh battery that has some people quoting a six to seven screen on time of use. Charging is supported by Quick Charge technology for a faster than usual time to juice up your smartphone. It’ll be sold for Rs. 9,999 (RM 613.31) – 2GB RAM/16GGB internal storage and Rs. 11,999 (RM 736) – 3GB RAM/32GB internal storage.

It’ll hit the online Mi store and Amazon on the 9^th of March at 2 PM and be available in silver, gold and gray. Malaysians will probably get the Redmi Note 3 in April but if you want to win a chance to try it out earlier, you can do so here.

Hugo didn’t just leave us at that, he also mentioned that the Mi 5 will come to India (Malaysia should follow shortly after) in a month’s time.