Xiaomi decided to cancel the production and sale of models from the Redmi and POCO lines with 1TB internal storage. The measure affects premium mid-range devices and directly responds to the global shortage of memory chips. Informações disclosed by supply chain sources indicate that the company reuses components for other lines.
The change occurs in a context of increasing production costs for NAND memories. Fabricantes prioritize data center provisioning for artificial intelligence, which reduces availability for mobile devices. Como result, the storage standard for cell phones up to 2,500 yuan becomes 512GB.
The company also makes silent price adjustments for 512GB variants. Prices rise between 400 and 500 yuan for some models already available on the Chinese market.
Reasons for component shortages
Demand for memory chips has grown significantly in recent months. Data centers dedicated to training and operating artificial intelligence models consume large volumes of high-capacity memories. Essa priority changes the balance of the global semiconductor market.
Manufacturers such as Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron direct much of their production to long-term contracts with technology companies. The smartphone segment receives less allocation, which increases costs and limits configuration options. Projeções indicate that data centers could absorb up to 70% of total memory production in 2026.
Adjustments to prices charged
The Xiaomi implements gradual increases in models with 512GB of storage. The correction varies between 400 and 500 yuan, depending on the line and the sales region. Essa strategy maintains initial competitiveness without compromising margins over time.
The company is also considering offering aggressive discounts only during pre-sale periods. Após the official launch, values return to regular levels. Essa practice seeks to balance sales volume with profitability in a high cost scenario.
Impact on intermediate lines
Models Redmi and POCO positioned in the range of up to 2,500 yuan no longer have 1TB options. The maximum configuration is now 512GB, with the possibility of expansion via microSD card on some devices. Essa standardization primarily affects devices aimed at consumers looking for high storage at affordable prices.
- Recent Redmi Note series lose high-capacity variants.
- POCO X and F series follow the same reduction pattern.
- Xiaomi flagship models maintain superior options.
The move reflects a broader trend in the Chinese mid-range smartphone market.
Repositioning strategy
Xiaomi concentrates resources on main lines to absorb higher capacity chips. Componentes originally intended for Redmi and POCO are redirected to flagship brand devices. Essa relocation optimizes the production chain and guarantees the supply of top-of-the-line products.
The company maintains a launch schedule scheduled for the coming months. Novos models remain in development, but with configurations adjusted to current supply constraints. The measure preserves its presence in the premium intermediate segment.
Storage Market Trends
The smartphone segment faces continued pressure on NAND and DRAM memory costs. The expansion of infrastructure for artificial intelligence maintains high prices in supply contracts. Fabricantes adjust specifications to contain full transfers to end consumers.
Average smartphone prices are expected to register a moderate increase in 2026. Analistas projects an increase of between 5% and 8% in several categories. The phenomenon affects not only Xiaomi, but the entire mobile device ecosystem.
Currently available settings
Premium intermediary models from Xiaomi now offer up to 512GB as a maximum standard. Variantes with 256GB and 128GB remain available in entry ranges. The company maintains support for expansion via cards on selected lines.
RAM options continue to vary, with up to 16GB on some POCO devices. The combination of 12GB or 16GB of RAM with 512GB of storage becomes common. Essa configuration meets most intensive uses without relying on 1TB native.
Perspectives for the premium segment
Xiaomi flagship lines preserve high storage options. Modelos as well as the numbered Xiaomi series maintain 1TB or larger variants. Essa differentiation reinforces the premium positioning of the main brand in relation to sub-brands.
The strategy clearly separates target audiences. Consumidores that prioritize maximum capacity migrate to more expensive devices. Já the intermediate segment focuses on balance between performance and affordability.
Repercussion among consumers
Users who planned to purchase Redmi or POCO models with 1TB need to review options. Alternativas include use of cloud storage or microSD cards. The move sparks debate about the end of the era of high storage at low prices.
Rival manufacturers take similar measures on equivalent lines. Settings restriction becomes standard in the Chinese market. Consumidores seek hybrid solutions to meet space needs.
The mid-range smartphone market records moderate growth despite restrictions. Demand for balanced devices remains high. Fabricantes compensate for limitations with improvements in processors and cameras.