Xiaomi "Zhuque": The Future of Buttonless Phones?

Xiaomi "Zhuque": The Future of Buttonless Phones?Remember the Xiaomi MIX Alpha with its wraparound screen and bezel-less design? It debuted in 2019 but never went into production. Now, Xiaomi seems ready to revisit this bold idea, calling it "Zhuque

Xiaomi "Zhuque": The Future of Buttonless Phones?

Remember the Xiaomi MIX Alpha with its wraparound screen and bezel-less design? It debuted in 2019 but never went into production. Now, Xiaomi seems ready to revisit this bold idea, calling it "Zhuque."

Reports suggest the phone will completely ditch traditional physical buttons, featuring a seamless, hole-free body. Even the speaker openings will disappear, creating a truly stunning visual impact. However, this design raises significant questions: How will it be controlled without buttons? How will it produce sound without speakers? How will it charge and transfer data without ports?

To achieve this, Xiaomi reportedly plans to revolutionize interaction methods, incorporating gesture control, pressure-sensitive edges, and voice commands. These technologies aren't new, but they will be deeply integrated into "Zhuque." For example, Xiaomi previously unveiled a concept phone with a four-sided waterfall display and utilized ultra-thin piezoelectric ceramics for external sound production, replacing the earpiece with flexible film screen sound technology.

Despite its ambition, "Zhuque" faces significant challenges. For example, under-display camera technology still suffers from issues like low resolution, poor front-facing camera performance, and low brightness. Although the technology is improving, it's still not perfect.

Additionally, "Zhuque's" hardware specifications are eagerly anticipated. Its rumored to be powered by the overclocked Qualcomm Snapdragon 8Gen4 processor, positioning it as a high-end flagship.

While no official release date has been confirmed, sources suggest "Zhuque" might make its debut in March 2025.

Looking back at Xiaomi's explorations in recent years, it's clear they have been relentless in their pursuit of phone form factor innovation. From the stunning debut of the first Xiaomi MIX to the current "Zhuque," Xiaomi appears determined to break boundaries and push innovation. However, technological innovation isn't a quick fix. Xiaomi needs to balance technical prowess with user experience.

Will "Zhuque" be Xiaomi's next breakthrough? Only time will tell.