Xiaomi set to launch Mi Band and accessories in Europe, but no phones

Xiaomi’s Hugo Barra yesterday revealed that the Chinese gadget maker will start selling its Mi Band fitness tracker (pictured) and other accessories in Europe soon. But Xiaomi’s phones are not coming along for the ride.

It’s a similar situation to Xiaomi’s upcoming US debut – it’s all about ecommerce rather than smartphones.

Barra made the announcement onstage at a session in MWC 2015 in Barcelona, Spain, according to CNET. Alongside the US$13 Mi Band, Xiaomi will sell its earphones and popular Power Bank battery packs in Europe.

We’ve contacted Xiaomi for details, such as launch dates and specific countries.

Xiaomi has not indicated why it’s not selling phones in markets like North America or the EU. Some observers say it’s due to Xiaomi’s weak patent portfolio, which would expose the company to legal action or expensive licensing fees in litigious areas like the US. Another possible reason is the way consumers in these markets are used to subsidized, on-contract phones, which makes unlocked and pay-as-you-go phones like Xiaomi’s less attractive on price.

(Source: CNET)