Xiaomi, Samsung Patent 3D Touch Equivalents Of Apple’s Innovation

Following the patenting of 3D touch equivalents by two Asian competitors of Apple, there is speculation these features would soon be seen in Samsung Galaxy S7 and Xiaomi's next device.

The rumors are based on the Chinese tipster Leaksfly that reported on the patent of the equivalent technology by the South Korean and Chinese phone giants.

However, since Xiaomi is set to launch Mi5 in early 2016, chances are the 3D touch equivalent would not be in that smartphone model yet, especially the tipster site hints that the Chinese device could be out as early as this November, reports TechnoBuffalo. The chances of having 3D is Mi5 is further dimmed by Xiaomi's plan to use the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chip on its next flagship phone.

But Firstpost cites a tip from Weibo, based on a GforGames report, that Samsung plans to use the Synaptics' touchscreen controller, while Xiaomi could use the same technology or build a new one. It notes that Xiaomi is copying not only Apple's technology, but Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun is also imitating the blue jeans and black turtle neck shirt attire that deceased Apple co-founder Steve Jobs wore.

Besides the 3D technology, Firstpost hints more Apple rip-offs are expected from Xiaomi from the Sapphire Glass to laptops that look like MacBooks. The Chinese phone giant even delights in being known as the "Apple of China."

TechnoBuffalo, however, doubts other phonemakers would succeed in having the 3D touch on their flagship phones if it does not have official Android support.