Sou Hu Wang·2025-10-22 09:20Core Viewpoint - Xiaomi's high-end strategy has sparked industry attention, with recent sales of 1 million units of the Xiaomi 17, despite skepticism from brand experts regarding its technological capabilities and brand image [1][20]. Group 1: Xiaomi's Strategic Evolution and Missteps - Xiaomi has been known for its user experience, innovative marketing, and high performance at competitive prices since its inception [6]. - The brand initially had a clear strategy of benchmarking against Apple, which helped elevate its brand recognition [8]. - However, from 2013 to 2014, Xiaomi shifted its focus towards market share and cost-effectiveness, moving away from its strategy of directly challenging Apple [12][20]. Group 2: Comparison with Huawei - Huawei's success in the high-end market is attributed to its consistent strategy of benchmarking against Apple, which helped establish a strong high-end image in consumers' minds [5][13]. - Unlike Xiaomi, Huawei maintained a clear competitive stance, emphasizing its technological advantages over Apple, which allowed it to capture significant market share [10][15]. - The contrast between Xiaomi and Huawei highlights the importance of strategic positioning in achieving business success [3][5]. Group 3: Strategic Insights for Xiaomi - Xiaomi's challenges in the high-end market stem from a lack of sustained commitment to its original strategy of benchmarking against Apple, rather than a deficiency in technology or resources [20][24]. - The company needs to reassess its high-end strategy and reaffirm its commitment to benchmarking against Apple to overcome current challenges [28]. - The case of Xiaomi serves as a reminder that strategic continuity and courage are essential for building a strong national brand [24][28]. Group 4: Opportunities for National Brands - The current era presents significant opportunities for national brands, with increasing expectations for them to challenge international competitors [25]. - Companies should focus on differentiating their concepts and capturing consumer mindshare through strong branding [27]. - Concentrating resources on key competitive areas is crucial for success, as demonstrated by Huawei's approach in the high-end market [27].