Xiaomi (or simply Mi) has announced the next version of its cheapest smartphone offering – the Redmi 1S. The new offering, called Redmi 2 (alternatively Hongmi 2) is an upgrade over the former and packs an upgraded 64-bit Snapdragon processor while keeping the same 4.7″ 720p display and a similar overall design of the phone. Another worthy addition is the LTE support which might not be everybody’s cup of tea, but still good to have. Let’s take a look at the detailed key specifications of the Xiaomi Redmi 2.
Specifications of Mi Redmi 2
Redmi 2 or Hongmi 2 packs some really neat specifications which when combined with the retail price, make it a decent and powerful budget-friendly device.
| Category | Redmi 2 (Hongmi 2) |
| Display | 4.7″ 720p (312 ppi) IPS Display from Sharp or AUO |
| CPU (Processor) | 1.2 Ghz Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 (64-bit) MSM8916 |
| GPU (Graphics) | Adreno 306 |
| RAM | 1GB LPDDR3 |
| Storage | 8GB Expandable upto 32GB via SD Card |
| OS | MIUI 6 Based on Android 4.4 (Kitkat) |
| Camera | Primary (Back) – 8MP w/ Flash (1080p recording) Secondary (Front) – 2MP (720p recording) |
| Network | Dual-SIM (Micro) 2G, 3G, 4G (FDD-LTE, TDD-LTE) Available in variations for different carriers |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0 WiFi GPS MicroUSB |
| Battery | 2200 mAh (Li-PO) from Sony or LG |
Price and Availability
Xiaomi is initially going to make the Redmi 2 available in China and will then expand it to other countries according to their plans. As Redmi 1S is already selling in many markets, Xiaomi might be looking to finish the current stocks before introducing the newer Redmi 2.
The phone is priced at 699 yuans in China which roughly converts to $112 (USD). It is available for pre-order already with regular sales starting on 9th of January. It is not available internationally, but those who cannot wait can buy one from OPPO Mart which will be selling it for $119 (excluding shipping and customs).