Xiaomi, the people

If there’s one more takeaway that can be had from the Chinese market’s Q1 results, it’s that Xiaomi is unflappable, being able to thrive even in adverse conditions. Last summer, when The Handelot Times profiled the fastest growing Chinese smartphone manufacturer, we noted how they had a passionate fanbase that rivaled Apple’s fervent (if unofficially named) Cult of Mac community. So-called “mi fans” are unabashedly enthusiastic, establishing myriad messageboards throughout the internet, voicing their undying affection for the upstart brand.

That Xiaomi has been able engineer such a movement is unique, with respect to the Cult of Mac, who are seduced by the sleekness of device design, ease of use and customer service. Android users in general have touted their devices’ superiority, largely attributed to its ability to be perfected thanks to its open-source coding. However, Xiaomi is the first Android-based phone manufacturer that has supporters who can arguably match the zeal of Apple fans. Bloomberg News points out that Xiaomi engages with their supporters far more than Apple does, reaching out via social media and incentivizing further purchases through the use of tactics like flash sales and product giveaways.

Two Xiaomi fans in Indonesia may have crossed the Rubicon, however. According to GizChina, Fredi Yana and Delima Naufalyn have named their newborn daughter, born April 18th, after the company. No joke. Here’s the birth certificate to prove it.

Naming children after a pursuit is nothing new. Sports is one of the most common inspirations for names, and you probably have that couple in your neighborhood with their son named Ronaldo or Sachin, or daughter christened Oksana or Christy. But a cell phone company? That’s serious love for tech.