Xiaomi President Lu Weibing publicly refuted claims that the company’s latest smartphone designs intentionally mimic Apple’s iPhone models,dismissing the accusations as baseless and stemming from biased perceptions. The statement, made on September 22, 2025, during a company event, comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Xiaomi’s product development strategies and its competitive positioning within the global smartphone market.
The debate over Xiaomi’s design choices resurfaced following the release of the Xiaomi 14 series, with some observers noting similarities in camera module layouts and overall aesthetic to recent iPhone iterations. This isn’t the first time Xiaomi has faced such criticism; previous models have also drawn comparisons to Apple’s designs, fueling a narrative of imitation. The allegations carry weight as Xiaomi continues its aggressive expansion into international markets, seeking to establish itself as a premium brand alongside Apple and Samsung. A perception of copying could hinder its efforts to gain consumer trust and brand recognition, especially in regions where Apple holds significant market share.
Weibing argued that design similarities are frequently enough a natural outcome of industry trends and the pursuit of optimal functionality. He emphasized that Xiaomi prioritizes autonomous innovation and user experience, and that any perceived resemblance is coincidental. “We have our own design language and philosophy,” Weibing stated. “We don’t simply copy others. we focus on creating products that meet the needs of our users.” He further suggested that criticism often originates from individuals with pre-existing biases against the brand.
The controversy highlights the challenges faced by Android smartphone manufacturers in differentiating their products in a market dominated by Apple’s iconic design language. While innovation is constant, certain design elements – such as slim profiles, edge-to-edge displays, and prominent camera systems – have become industry standards. Xiaomi’s defence underscores its commitment to establishing a distinct brand identity and navigating the complex landscape of intellectual property and design aesthetics. The company’s future product releases will be closely watched to see how it addresses these concerns and continues to innovate.
