Xiaomi Threatens to Kill Android as Google Employees Chatter About the Latest Mi Phones

From all the Android aspirants throughout the globe, Xiaomi has managed to get the world's attention - and for a good reason. Despite its founders saying that they are an "Internet company" offering solid hardware at affordable prices, its products are selling insanely in China with great potential across the globe. The same potential also possibly threatens Google's position.

The disclaimer that it is an "internet company" offering low-priced devices meant that Google has a new type of rival. Throughout the years, Google's rivals were limited to those offering devices running on Android. Nonetheless, they are still well within "frenemies" zone because they do not challenge Google as Internet Company.

The different deal with Xiaomi is that it is powered by previous "Googlers." This means that an entity claiming to be an internet company and provider of hardware can pose as a challenge to Google. According to The Information, Xiaomi is "better positioned" to become Google's challenger because it can sell more handsets beyond China including untapped regions such as India. The report further notes that those under Google's Android unit discussed with colleagues and outsiders that in the future they expect Xiaomi to provide its series of Web services that are in competition directly to Google's apps.

Xiaomi has also set out to prove the durability of its device through a unique test using crustaceans. While most companies do their durability tests inside their labs, Xiaomi added some twist and decided on three sea creatures. The company used a freshwater crab, a Japanese blue crab and a lobster to clamp on the Mi 4. The device was able to hold its own against the unique testing tools. The new stunt could also support claims about Xiaomi's ability to differentiate itself from the rest of Android manufacturers.

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