CNBCยท2025-05-22 12:36Core Viewpoint - Xiaomi is positioning itself as a strong competitor to Apple's iPhone by launching the new Xiaomi 15S Pro, which features an advanced chip and a lower price point compared to Apple's latest models [1][2]. Pricing Strategy - The Xiaomi 15S Pro starts at 5,499 yuan ($764), making it eligible for state-subsidized discounts, while the iPhone 16 Pro starts at 7,999 yuan and the iPhone Pro Max at 9,999 yuan, both above the 6,000 yuan threshold for discounts [2]. Technological Advancements - Xiaomi's CEO Lei Jun claims that the new Xring O1 chip outperforms Apple's A18 Pro in several technical aspects, including lower heat generation during gaming [3][4]. - The Xring O1 chip is in mass production, and Xiaomi plans to invest at least 50 billion yuan ($6.9 billion) over the next decade in its chip development [6]. Research and Development Investment - Xiaomi will allocate 200 billion yuan for research and development over the next five years, starting in 2026, and anticipates a 30% revenue growth this year [5]. Automotive Ventures - Xiaomi's first electric car, the SU7, was launched at a price $4,000 lower than Tesla's Model 3, and the company plans to release its first SUV, the YU7, in July [7][8]. - The company delivered over 28,000 vehicles in April, a slight decrease from the previous month, following a tragic accident involving one of its vehicles [9]. Financial Performance - Xiaomi is set to release its first-quarter results on May 27, after reporting record revenue and net profit for 2024 in March, with nearly 42% of total revenue coming from overseas markets [10].