(UPDATE: It's official) Leaked promotional images show off the Mi Band 3 in all its glory
UPDATE: Xiaomi has confirmed that two variants of the Mi Band 3 will go on sale, retailing for $25 and $30 - the more expensive of the two includes NFC integration. Aside from this feature, though, both variants are identical, including a touch-sensitive display and a 110mAh battery that allows for 20 days of battery life. Also, Bluetooth 4.2 LE. In regards to a release date, the Chinese brand is yet to make an official announcement.
Taking a close look at the Mi Band 3, it appears the biggest difference is the overall the size of the display, which has been stretched significantly. For reference, 2016’s Mi Band 2 sports a 0.42-inch OLED display, whereas the new Mi Band 3 looks set to sport a much larger 0.78-inch OLED panel. In addition to the overall size, Xiaomi has also refined the look of the display by placing it on top of the band with glass now curving round on each side towards the rubber. Looking at the rest of the wearable, the company hasn’t made any changes, with the rubber band retaining its exact same design.
As with the second-generation device, the upcoming Mi Band 3 will be capable of counting steps and calories. It will also include a heart rate monitor and will be water and dust resistant. Furthermore, the band looks set to support alarms and weather notifications, and will also notify owners of incoming calls and recent text messages.
Xiaomi’s second generation is still extremely successful - it allowed Xiaomi to capture 18% of the global wearable market in Q1 2018, putting it in first place alongside Apple. Nevertheless, with sales of the Mi Band 3 expected to commence June 5, Q3 2018 could potentially see Xiaomi speed ahead, taking the wearable crown for itself. After all, the promotional posters in question point towards a price of 169 Yuan, or just over $26. For those interested in the wearable, it will become official later on today alongside Xiaomi’s newest flagship devices, the Mi 8 and Mi 8 SE, which have also leaked recently.
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