Xiaomi’s founder, Lei Jun, has announced the imminent launch of the internally developed XRING 01 processor, scheduled for release at the end of May. The goal is to regain control over the key components of its high-end smartphones, starting with the upcoming Xiaomi 15S.
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Returning to In-House Chip Development
Eight years after the failure of the Surge S1, Xiaomi is re-entering the chip-making arena with the XRING 01, a mobile processor developed by its subsidiary, Shanghai Xuanjie Technology. After initial setbacks put a halt to its SoC ambitions, competitive pressures and geopolitical tensions have reignited the company’s desire to have greater control over its value chain. The stated aim is to reduce dependence on suppliers like Qualcomm or MediaTek, while enhancing the performance and cost-efficiency of its future devices.
A Premium Chip Shrouded in Mystery
Details are still sparse, but various leaks suggest the chip features a tri-cluster ARM architecture with a Cortex-X925 core clocked at 3.2 GHz. Regarding manufacturing, there are conflicting reports about whether the chip utilizes a 4 nm or 3 nm process, both options involving TSMC. The XRING 01 is expected to include an Immortalis-G925 GPU and deliver performance comparable to the Snapdragon 8 Gen2, while relying on an external 5G modem supplied by either MediaTek or Unisoc. Essentially, Xiaomi is targeting the top tier of the market without claiming immediate technological leadership.
A Strategy Similar to Google’s Tensor Approach
Xiaomi’s strategy mirrors that of Google with its Tensor chips: aiming for more cohesive hardware-software optimization, even if it means slightly lower raw power compared to industry leaders. Like Google and Apple, Xiaomi appears to be aiming to create a more integrated ecosystem with chips designed for its specific needs, even if it means sacrificing some of the versatility offered by standard SoCs.
The endeavor is significant: Xiaomi has reportedly engaged over 1,000 engineers to develop this chip, led by a former Qualcomm executive. The establishment of a dedicated entity, Shanghai Xuanjie, also indicates a long-term commitment to structuring its efforts in this sector, even if it means progressing in distinct stages. Opting not to incorporate the XRING 01 into the Surge series also marks a departure, or rather a redefinition, of the original project.