Xiaomi has just officially unveiled its second wearable device named Mi Band Pulse. It is a follow-up to its original Mi Band that became world's second best-selling wearable behind Fitbit, until the Apple Watch's launch. The second-gen iPhone-friendly fitness tracker features a step counter, alarms and notifications, heart rate monitor, and Android/iOS support.
Its new heart rate tracker makes the Pulse or "Mi Band 1s" a bit larger than the first-generation wrist wearable, according to PC Mag. It runs on Android 4.4 or higher, and iPhone 4S/iOS 7.0 or higher.
A wireless Internet connection is available through Bluetooth 4.0. Xiaomi's Mi Fit app can also link the gadget to mobile devices such as Apple smartphones, in order to sync its health and fitness data.
The Pulse includes a 45mAh battery, which its manufacturer claims has a 30-day single charge. Color options include black, blue, green, orange, and teal (dark green-blue).
However, even with all its specs, the Xiaomi wearable has maintained a cheap $16 price tag. The original Mi Band is still on sale for shoppers who want a more basic fitness tracker. It is about $13.
Xiaomi claims that the Mi Band 2 has the same high accuracy as the Apple Watch, and a stronger band material.
The Mi Band Pulse will only be on sale in China. It is line with the country's 11/11 Singles Day or "bare sticks holiday," which features singles parties, Karaoke sessions, and online shopping.
Xiaomi fans might be disappointed that the Chinese company has announced no plans for an international roll-out of its new wearable fitness tracker. However, it could be a short wait. The Mi Band Pulse's first-gen predecessor is already available in the United States, Europe, and India through the global Mi.com store, according to Tech Crunch.