Xiaomi Mi A2

The Xiaomi Mi A2 was a significant device in Xiaomi’s lineup, especially because it was a part of the Android One program, ensuring a stock Android experience. Here’s an in-depth review of the Xiaomi Mi A2:

Overview:

Launched in 2018, the Xiaomi Mi A2 followed the success of the Mi A1, Xiaomi’s first Android One device. The Mi A2 aimed to offer powerful specifications combined with a clean, bloat-free software experience, making it a unique offering in Xiaomi’s typically MIUI-heavy lineup.

Features:

Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.1 Oreo, under the Android One program, ensuring regular updates and a stock Android experience. It was later upgradeable to newer Android versions.
Display: 5.99-inch LTPS IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2160 pixels.
Processor: Qualcomm SDM660 Snapdragon 660 Octa-core.
Memory: Options of 4/6 GB RAM with 32/64/128 GB internal storage (non-expandable).
Camera: Dual rear camera setup – 12 MP primary sensor and 20 MP secondary sensor for low-light photography. A 20 MP front camera with a flash.
Battery: 3000 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging support.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and GPS.
Other Features: USB Type-C, rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, and infrared port.

Pros:

Camera Performance: The Mi A2’s camera, especially the secondary 20 MP sensor, was designed for enhanced low-light photography, making it stand out in its price segment.
Clean Software: Being a part of the Android One program, the device offered a stock Android experience, which was a departure from Xiaomi’s typical MIUI interface.
Performance: The Snapdragon 660 chipset ensured smooth performance for daily tasks and gaming.
Build and Design: The slim aluminum unibody design gave the Mi A2 a premium feel.

Cons:

Battery Life: The 3000 mAh battery was considered average, especially when compared to other Xiaomi devices known for larger batteries.
No 3.5mm Jack: The Mi A2 omitted the headphone jack, which was a point of contention for many users.
No Expandable Storage: The lack of a microSD slot meant users had to be content with the onboard storage options.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2018, the Xiaomi Mi A2 faced competition from various devices in the mid-range segment:

Nokia 7 Plus: Offering a robust build, clean Android One experience, and a larger battery.
Motorola Moto G6 Plus: With its glass design, clean software, and focus on camera capabilities.
Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1: Known for its massive battery and stock Android experience.

Launch Date:

The Xiaomi Mi A2 was announced in July 2018 and released in the same month.

Common Issues/Problems:

Camera Bumps: The camera module protruded quite a bit, making the phone wobble when placed on a flat surface.
Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches, especially with camera performance, though many were addressed in subsequent updates.
Battery Drain: Some users experienced faster battery drain, especially after certain software updates.

Conclusion:

The Xiaomi Mi A2 was a testament to Xiaomi’s versatility as a brand. While they were primarily known for their MIUI software experience, the Mi A2 showcased their ability to deliver a device with stock Android, catering to a different set of users. The phone’s camera capabilities, combined with its clean software and robust performance, made it a compelling choice in the mid-range segment. While it had its shortcomings, the overall package offered by the Mi A2 made it a favorite among users looking for a no-nonsense Android experience with reliable performance.