14 DAY TRIAL // Chinese companies like Xiaomi, Meizu, Oppo and Gionee do not usually launch their flagship smartphones in Europe. Since most of their sales come from China, it makes sense for these companies to schedule launch events exclusively in the Mainland.
However, it looks like 2016 marks new premieres in the smartphones industry, as Xiaomi will launch, for the first time, its flagship smartphone at Mobile World Congress 2016 trade fair.
The Chinese company confirmed that Xiaomi Mi5 would be unveiled during a press conference in Barcelona, on February 24. On the same day, the Mi5 will be launched in China at a dedicated event.
Today, another Chinese handset maker announced plans to unveil its flagship smartphones at MWC 2016 trade fair. Gionee has already sent out invites for a launch event scheduled on February 22, one day after Galaxy S7's official launch.
“A new era of mobile photography has arrived, and we welcome our consumers to explore this era together with joy in their hearts. We believe technology is part of our lives, and we enjoy the convenience and creativity it brings.
“At MWC 2016, Gionee will introduce a new member to its S series – the Elife S8, an innovative mobile device that comes with hassle-free photo-shooting features and a pressure-sensitive display,” reads Gionee's invitation.
While the company confirmed which device would be announced on February 22, it did not provide any details on the Elife S8's specs sheet.
MediaTek chipset and Quad HD display?
However, rumor has it the smartphone will feature an all-metal chassis and a Quad HD (2560 x 1440 pixels) display, which makes sense if Gionee wants to be competitive on the Chinese market.
Furthermore, the Elife S8 is said to pack a 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal memory. There should be a 24-megapixel camera on the back while in the front there's a secondary 8-megapixel selfie camera.
Although initial information suggests the smartphone will come equipped with a 64-bit MediaTek MT6795 chipset, there's a high chance that Gionee will include a newer processor inside.
Gionee Elife S8 will be announced on February 22, but it might not be available for purchase until March / April. Also, we don't know if it will be launched in more countries other than China and India.