From the Android TV perspective, one of the big announcements to come through from Google I/O this year, was the confirmation that Xiaomi is entering the market and bringing its own Android TV product, the Xiaomi Mi Box. Along with the initial announcement, Xiaomi did provide some of the more basic spec details so we do know that the Mi Box comes equipped with 2GB RAM, 8GB storage, is powered by a quad-core ARM Cortex-A53 processor and a Mali 450 GPU. In addition, this is a 4K, HDR, Dolby Digital Plus and DTS Surround Sound supported Android TV device and one which comes running on Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) out of the box.
Earlier today, we took a hands-on look at the hardware aspects of the Mi Box including the main Mi Box unit, the included Bluetooth remote control and the optional Mi Game Controller. However, anyone with an Android TV device will tell you that while the look and design of the product maters, it is the interface and the general experience that matters the most. So on that note here we are highlighting just how the user interface on the Mi Box looks and feels and with the help of Vice President of International for Xiaomi (and ex-Googler) Hugo Barra.
In the video below, Barra demonstrates the Mi Box’s Android TV interface and what you can expect to get if you do opt to pick up the Mi Box. For those who are already familiar with Android TV, then a lot of what is on offer here will be fairly standard, with what seems to be a stock version of Android TV, with little in the way of additional Xiaomi-specific content. Barra does briefly navigate the leanback launcher, showcases the 4K capabilities of the Mi Box via YouTube and provides a quick glimpse of the gaming abilities of the device. Generally speaking, the Mi Box in the demonstration seems to be fairly fluid with no noticeable lag or issues with the general navigation. Apps open and close smoothly and the whole experience seems to be one which has been put together quite nicely by Xiaomi. Of course, you can see for yourself by hitting play below.