In January 2024 Xiaomi launched two major initiatives for Japan: the flagship Xiaomi 17 Pro series received a rear‑screen video‑recording feature that captures real‑time AR effects, while the rugged mid‑range Redmi Note 15 series entered the market with IP68 protection, 2.5 m drop resistance, and long‑life battery technology.
Rear‑Screen Video Recording on Xiaomi 17 Pro
The new feature leverages the rear display of the Xiaomi 17 Pro to record exactly what appears on the screen, including AR overlays, live filters, and real‑time AI enhancements. Users can preview composition and lighting instantly, making short‑form content creation faster and more intuitive.
Key technical highlights:
- AI‑powered video engine on HyperOS for noise reduction and auto‑subject tracking.
- Real‑time cloud encoding via 5G for seamless upload.
- Supports AR effects directly from the rear screen, eliminating the need for third‑party apps.
Durable Redmi Note 15 Series for Japan
Targeted at users who value resilience, the Redmi Note 15 lineup (Redmi Note 15 5G and Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G) combines rugged design with modern performance.
Robust Build and Water Resistance
- High‑strength aluminum frame tolerates drops from up to 2.5 meters.
- IP68 rating protects against dust and water immersion.
Extended Battery Lifespan
- Maintains over 80 % capacity after 1 600 charge cycles – roughly 30 % better than typical mid‑range phones.
Fast Charging and Ecosystem Integration
- Redmi Note 15 5G ships with a 67 W TurboCharge adapter.
- Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G includes the Redmi Buds 5 Pro wireless earphones, encouraging entry into Xiaomi’s broader ecosystem.
Market Landscape and Competition
Japan’s rugged‑smartphone segment has long been dominated by the TORQUE series, priced around ¥40,000. The Redmi Note 15 series offers comparable durability while adding 5G, high‑refresh‑rate displays, and AI camera capabilities, all priced in the ¥50,000 range. This positions Redmi as a cost‑effective alternative that challenges the existing market structure.
Potential Impact in Japan
The rear‑screen recording feature could set a new standard for content creators as short‑form video platforms continue to grow. If widely adopted, it may push other manufacturers to explore similar hardware‑software integrations.
Meanwhile, the Redmi Note 15’s blend of toughness and modern specs offers Japanese mid‑range buyers a high‑value option, especially with bundled accessories that simplify ecosystem adoption. Xiaomi’s dual strategy—innovative flagship features and practical durability—aims to increase brand loyalty and capture market share across both premium and mid‑range segments.
