Looks like Xiaomi is about getting in the news for the wrong reasons. Recall how Samsung and Apple were discovered to slow down their phones with ageing batteries and even sanctioned in Italy? Looks like Xiaomi is about taking a similar step, if the latest discovery by XDA Developers is anything to go by.
The guys at XDA discovered a set of code within the recently released Mi Security app version 5.6.0, bringing new battery care and charging settings. The settings contain clues that Xiaomi will start issuing a warning and lower the charging speed if the MIUI OS detects that the smartphone has an “unauthorized” battery installed under the hood. The warning prompt includes instructions that only authorized service providers should replace the phone’s battery. There is also another warning that using an “unauthorized” battery can result in damage to the device or harm the user.
The code also shows that this new warning will only be restricted to users in China and will be specific to the Mi 9, Mi 10, and Mi 10 Pro. Thankfully, the warning won’t be shown to users of the affected models or any other Xiaomi phone in other regions. However, it cannot be confirmed if the warning has started affecting users of the models in China.
We cannot say if Xiaomi won’t replicate this in the future in other markets but believe there may be legitimate reasons why the company would want to do this. The models in question are equipped with fast charging technology and the third-party battery, some of which may be substandard, may not be able to handle the fast charging speed. This could then result in battery swelling, overheating, or leakage which may result to fire and other hazards.
But then, issuing a warning is one thing, slowing down the charging speed of the phones is a different game entirely. Of course, replacing it with a third-party battery automatically voids whatever warranty the users may have. Thus, Xiaomi isn’t supposed to be liable for any damage that will occur, bearing in mind that there are good third-party accessories out there. Also, getting a battery replacement from an authorized service center may not be feasible, even in China where Xiaomi accessories are in high demand.
There is no clue on how Xiaomi will detect third-party batteries on the phones but Apple’s own warning is triggered by a micro-controller that can only be configured by authorized Apple technicians. It is possible Xiaomi is deploying the same mechanism.
We expect Xiaomi to issue a statement clarifying why they want to toe this path and if this feature will roll out outside China to other markets like Europe and India.
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(source)
