Xiaomi’s Mi smartwatch design may not be original, but the company will make a compelling case with its hardware and features. After confirming some of the key hardware components of the smartwatch yesterday, today, Xiaomi has shown us a glimpse of its software.

mi smartwatch apps lite

Xiaomi confirms that the Mi smartwatch will be able to install third-party apps for additional functions. From the image, we can confirm that the smartwatch will be able to download and install apps like WeChat, QQ, Alipay, Keep (fitness app), and even DiDi (uber-like app). You can also control smart home devices, and check your fitness data right from the Mi smartwatch.

However, if you notice, the apps are of small size, all under 5MB. This is a very good indication that these are ‘Lite’ versions of the regular apps specially optimized for the smartwatch. The company further adds that it runs on an open OS just like a smartphone. Unfortunately, we still don’t know whether it’ll run on Google’s WearOS.

Xiaomi Watch render
Official renders of the Xiaomi Watch

Xiaomi has confirmed that the Mi smartwatch will be powered by the Snapdragon wear 3100 processor, made specifically for wearables. It will have GPSNFC, Wi-Fi / Bluetooth modules, an independent linear motor as well as speakers inside. The watch also adds eSIM support.