Xiaomi's new Redmi Note 3 with Qualcomm Snapdragon processor will launch in India

Xiaomi announced Redmi Note 3 last year, in late-November, alongside the Mi Pad 2 slate. The affordable phablet, which sports a metal body and fingerprint sensor, arrived with a MediaTek Helio X10 processor, but the company is now adding a Qualcomm Snapdragon version into the mix.

The new Redmi Note 3 version is powered by a mid-range, 64-bit, 1.8 GHz hexa-core Snapdragon 650 processor, which offers Adreno 510 graphics, support for UltraHD video and VoLTE, and an integrated X8 modem which enables higher transfer speeds over cellular networks. This model is likely introduced for international markets.

The X8 modem is advertised as a global solution by Qualcomm, supporting a wide range of cellular networks in both China, where this new Redmi Note 3 version will initially be available, and other major markets. It also makes it possible to achieve download and upload speeds of up to 300 Mbps and 100 Mbps, respectively, which are typically associated with the so-called 4G LTE+ cellular networks.

There is one other difference compared to the Helio X10-powered Redmi Note 3 that is worth mentioning. The new version comes with a 16 MP camera with phase detection auto focus, as opposed to a 13 MP unit in the older model. Hit the link in the first paragraph for a complete breakdown of Redmi Note 3's specs.

The Snapdragon 650-equipped Redmi Note 3 will be available in two versions. One has 16 GB of internal storage and 2 GB of RAM, and will cost CNY999 ($151), and the other has double the storage capacity (32 GB) and 3 GB of RAM. The price for the higher-end model has yet to be announced. It, of course, runs the Android-based MIUI 7.

Xiaomi has also revealed that this Redmi Note 3 will be available in India. As some of you may remember, Xiaomi has had issues with Qualcomm in the country, with its MediaTek-powered devices, so the introduction of this model will ensure a hassle-free launch in this Asian market.