Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi’s 17 series introduces a back screen primarily used as a viewfinder for high-quality rear camera selfies and videos.
2. The back display also shows notifications, time, and features always-on display (AoD) functions like a pedometer.
3. Uncertainty exists about developers creating widgets for the second screen and the future support for this feature.
4. The Pro models with the second screen may not launch globally, raising questions about Xiaomi’s future investment in this technology.
5. The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is priced at just under $1,090, and its value depends on the user’s interest in taking selfies or selfie videos.
Larger batteries, super-thin designs, and tri-fold phones are all part of the push from manufacturers to keep the nearly perfected smartphone concept fresh with new ideas. One feature that has become more common is a display on the back of the device.
Xiaomi’s New Attempt
Xiaomi is giving it another go with a back screen in their 17 series, which isn’t available worldwide just yet. We recently examined the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max and looked at this unique attribute. The main use for this feature is likely its role as a viewfinder for the rear camera. This allows users to capture selfies or videos using the high-quality rear camera while being able to see themselves as they do it.
Extra Functions
Xiaomi has also incorporated this display for notifications, which is handy if the phone is placed face down on a table. Additionally, it can show the time and includes some always-on display (AoD) functions, like a pedometer.
However, a key question is whether developers will create their own widgets for this second screen or if other types of support will emerge. While Xiaomi is a significant player in the market and the 17 series is likely to perform well, the Pro models (which are the only ones featuring the second screen) are probably not going to be launched globally. This raises doubts about how much Xiaomi will invest in this feature moving forward.
Future of the Feature
There may be a way to adapt apps designed for foldable devices, but currently, there are very few applications that would genuinely enhance the experience with the second screen.
The Xiaomi 17 Pro Max is an impressive device priced at just under $1,090 for direct import from TradingShenzhen. Deciding whether to purchase it for the second screen largely depends on how often you take selfies or selfie videos with your phone.