Price and specifications of Xiaomi Mi 4 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Design and Build Quality

The Xiaomi Mi 4 offers an attractive blend of aesthetics and durability. With a glass front, plastic back, and an aluminum frame, it provides a premium feel without being too heavy, weighing just 149 grams. The phone's dimensions (139.2 x 68.5 x 8.9 mm) make it comfortable to hold and operate with one hand. Available in classic black and white colors, the Mi 4's design reflects a minimalist yet elegant approach, catering to users who appreciate simplicity and style.

Display

The Xiaomi Mi 4 features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display that delivers vibrant colors and wide viewing angles. With a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, amounting to a pixel density of approximately 441 ppi, the display is sharp and clear. The screen-to-body ratio of around 72.3% enhances the visual experience, making it suitable for playing games, watching videos, and browsing the web. The display also performs reasonably well under sunlight, maintaining readability in various lighting conditions.

Performance

Powered by the Qualcomm MSM8974AC Snapdragon 801 chipset, the Xiaomi Mi 4 is equipped with a quad-core 2.5 GHz Krait 400 processor accompanied by an Adreno 330 GPU. This hardware combination ensures smooth operation for everyday tasks, including web browsing, social media, and gaming. The device offers options of 2GB or 3GB of RAM, paired with either 16GB or 64GB of internal storage. However, it lacks a card slot for expandable storage, which might be a limitation for some users.

Camera

The Xiaomi Mi 4 boasts a 13 MP rear camera with an aperture of f/1.8, which effectively enhances low-light photography. Supported by features like LED flash, panorama, and HDR, the camera can capture well-detailed images. It also supports video recording in various resolutions, including 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 30fps, and slow-motion video at 720p at 120fps. The 8 MP front camera with an f/1.8 aperture also captures clear selfies and supports 1080p video recording, catering well to selfie enthusiasts.

Battery Life

Equipped with a non-removable Li-Ion 3080 mAh battery, the Xiaomi Mi 4 offers reasonable battery life to get through a typical day of moderate usage. It also supports 18W wired charging with Quick Charge 2.0, allowing for relatively swift recharge times. In standby mode, the phone can last up to 280 hours on 3G, making it a reliable companion for those needing their phone available around the clock.

Software and User Interface

Initially launched with Android 4.4.3 KitKat, the Xiaomi Mi 4 is upgradable to Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, running MIUI 10. MIUI offers a distinctly different experience from stock Android with its custom UI elements, additional features, and optimizations. Users can appreciate the rich customizability of the interface, smooth transitions, and advanced features that enhance everyday usability.

Connectivity and Network Features

The device supports a wide range of network technologies, including GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, and LTE, ensuring extensive compatibility worldwide. It includes dual-band Wi-Fi supporting 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac standards, along with Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA, and hotspot capabilities. Bluetooth 4.0, GPS with GLONASS and BDS support, an infrared port, and a microUSB 2.0 slot with OTG functionality round out a robust set of connectivity options. It's important to note that the Mi 4 lacks NFC, which might be a drawback for users who rely on mobile payments or quick file transfers.

Audio and Multimedia

The Xiaomi Mi 4 houses a decent loudspeaker satisfactory for regular use. The presence of a 3.5mm headphone jack allows for connection to a wide range of audio peripherals, catering to users who still prefer wired headphones. Audio output quality is balanced, although harder to impress audiophiles who might notice the nuances of noise and crosstalk. The phone also supports FM radio, allowing users to listen to local radio stations without using data.

Sensors and Additional Features

In terms of sensors, the Mi 4 includes an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, compass, and a barometer. These sensors facilitate a range of conveniences from navigation to health tracking. The lack of a fingerprint sensor or advanced biometric options, however, reflects its era of release rather than a major shortcoming.

Market Impact and Legacy

Launched in August 2014, the Xiaomi Mi 4 made a significant impact on the mid-range smartphone market. It exemplified Xiaomi's strategy of offering high-quality devices at competitive prices, thus earning a solid reputation and consumer base in multiple markets. As competition increased over the years, the Mi 4's legacy remains an example of Xiaomi's ability to challenge established brands by prioritizing both design and functionality at an accessible price point.

Conclusion

The Xiaomi Mi 4, with its blend of powerful specifications, pleasing design, and robust software experience, was a noteworthy contender in the smartphone market upon its release. While it lacks some modern features, such as expandable storage and biometric security, its value proposition was undeniably strong at its price point. Enthusiasts and technology reviewers alike often cited the Mi 4 as a critical step for Xiaomi in establishing itself globally as a reliable provider of quality tech products. Today, the Mi 4 is remembered fondly as a device that successfully captured the zeitgeist of its time.