UPDATE: Turns out this feature was already found on the Mi 4C released in 2015. Here’s an article we covered about the feature.
The HTC U11 flagship phone that was launched earlier this year features a pressure-sensitive frame which can be squeezed to access frequently used apps and contacts through Edge Sense feature. The Google Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL phones that were unveiled in the previous month also features squeezable frame for launching Google Assistant. Also, the newly launched HTC U11+ and U11 Life phones also carry the same Edge Sense feature. Fresh information suggests that Xiaomi could be working a smartphone that edge controls.
A Xiaomi Mi 5 user has found two hidden settings on his phone while checking activity shortcuts on Nova Launcher. The Mi 5 that he is using is running on MIUI 8.2.2. The two hidden controls can be found on the “Edge controls” menu. As the following snapshot shows, the feature allows users to touch/squeeze the sides of the phone to use edge controls. The feature can be used to go back or even snap a photo.
The Xiaomi Mi 5 that was launched in the previous year does not have sensors on its edges. This suggests that Xiaomi could be working on a smartphone that may carry support for this feature.
Read More: Xiaomi Aims to Become Top 500 Enterprise Company in 2018 with 100 Million Shipments Target
Xiaomi is rumored to debut the Xiaomi Mi 7 flagship phone in Q1 2018. It is speculated to arrive with a full screen display and Snapdragon 845 chipset. The 2017 flagship is also expected to carry support for wireless charging. However, there is no confirmation on whether the Mi 7 will be coming with pressure-sensitive frame.
(source)
