China Unicom version (WCDMA) Xiaomi Red Rice gets network license

After much speculation and a few leaked photos, we finally have some firm evidence that a WCDMA compatible Xiaomi Hongmi is on the way.

Xiaomi launched the low-cost Mediatek powered Hongmi a few months ago. Thanks to it’s high level hardware, MT6589T CPU, 1GB RAM, 4.7-inch display, Samsung camera, dual SIM and MIUI V5, it has sold extremely well, but only China Mobile customers have been able to enjoy the phone!

Finally though Xiaomi have applied and received for the network license on a WCDMA version of the $130 Android phone which will work with China Unicom networks, but also will be compatible with many European 3G services.

Xiaomi still haven’t officially announced the phone, but with this latest evidence we can hope that it will go on sale very soon.