Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro data sheet analysis and first hands-on photos: some of the shortcomings of the new Leica camera

Data sheet analysis: possible flaws of the Xiaomi 13 series

But now we get to analyzing the data sheets for Xiaomi 13 And the Xiaomi 13 Pro, of course, only in relation to Chinese models. Global versions may differ in part from the information provided here, which will likely affect primarily support for the 5G and LTE bands, but may also affect other specifications. We’ve noticed four areas in particular that Xiaomi still isn’t up to par with some of its competitors — in the flagship segment, mind you.

• USB speed
• Front camera video
• Network support
• Record part of the video

In terms of USB speed, Xiaomi doesn’t particularly comment on the USB-C port specifications in the Xiaomi 13 and Xiaomi 13 Pro data sheets. So one can assume that nothing has improved here compared to the predecessors, which still send data leisurely via USB 2.0 via a USB-C cable. However, it is not clear yet an official confirmation. In any case, it is well established that the 32MP front camera in the two new Xiaomi flagships continues to record 1080p videos at 30 frames per second. This is as incomprehensible as the competition, for example in the form of Samsung’s Galaxy S22 Ultra (Available here on Amazon) has long been offering 4K/60fps selfie videos.

Even with a Leica camera on the back, Xiaomi is making little headway in terms of video with its next generation flagship – despite support for Dolby Vision. Others, notably the Sony Xperia 1 IV (here Available on Amazon) has led 4K120 with all three cameras since this year, with Xiaomi still maxing out at 4K/60 or 8K/24. A leaker recently said Samsung’s Galaxy S23 Ultra should allow 8K/30 next year — so Samsung is lagging behind Increasingly Xiaomi is also here.

Finally, we come to the boring topic of mobile communications: perhaps the fact that Xiaomi does not support LTE band 20 in the new Chinese models is the only reason for delaying the import of cheaper Chinese versions. Compared to the almost complete coverage of all 4G bands worldwide, for example with the flagships of Samsung and Apple, but also some other Chinese competition, the very spartan network support of the Xiaomi flagship unfortunately seems outdated and completely impractical for travelers around the world.