On September 23rd, CNMO noted that network access information from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) indicated that the Xiaomi Mi 17 does not support UWB (ultra-wideband) technology, while the Xiaomi Mi 17 Pro series does.
Previously, a new Xiaomi phone with model number 2512BPNDAC passed MIIT certification. According to leaks, this new phone is likely the Xiaomi Mi 17 Ultra. Notably, the Xiaomi Mi 17 Ultra also supports UWB technology, but not satellite communication.
According to CNMO, UWB technology is highly sought after in the tech world for its powerful capabilities of precise positioning and seamless inter-device interaction. It is also a key feature that enhances the ecosystem experience in Xiaomi's flagship models. UWB plays a core role in the Xiaomi automotive ecosystem. Its centimeter-level positioning capabilities are essential for scenarios such as finding your car in a parking lot and unlocking the trunk without any touch. In the smart home sector, UWB technology may enable precise control, such as adjusting the volume by pointing at the TV.
The lack of satellite communication in the Xiaomi 17 Ultra may be related to product differentiation. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra series likely focuses on imaging, and with this product positioning, satellite communication functionality may not be a strong feature among its target user base. Of course, another possibility is that the satellite communication version of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra has not yet been connected to the network.
Market analysts suggest that the inclusion of UWB technology in Xiaomi's flagship phone is of far-reaching significance. Through high-stickiness scenarios like car keys and home control, UWB technology can tightly connect users to Xiaomi's ecosystem of products.
