Xiaomi announces Redmi Y3 mid-range handheld for selfie fans

The Redmi Y3 is designed to be the ultimate selfie device and Xiaomi added a 32 MP front camera specifically for this purpose. Even though the specs of the Y3 place it in the mid-range category, the aggressive pricing schemes practiced by Xiaomi allow the new handheld to be available for budget-oriented users. Mostly aimed at the younger public, the Redmi Y3 comes with a new Aura Prism design that adds subtle curves, dual Gorilla Glass 5 layers for both display and back case, plus a dual tone gradient with Prime Black, Elegant Blue and Bold Red color options on the back.

Spec-wise, the Redmi Y3 is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 632 SoC coupled with either 3 GB RAM and 32 GB storage or 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage. Users may add up to 512 GB more storage via the 2 + 1 card slots. The teardrop-notched 6.26-inch display is not 1080p unfortunately (1520 x 720), but it is one of the brightest displays on any Xiaomi models to date with its 450 nits peak brightness. Housed in the teardrop notch is an advanced 32 MP shooter with AI functions for low-light pictures, portrait enhancements, and face unlock.

On the back, there is a dual-cam with a 12 MP main sensor and a 2 MP depth one, plus a circular fingerprint reader. Other features include special hydrophobic coating that protects against accidental splashes, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a generous 4,000 mAh battery with 10 W charger.

Xiaomi will begin shipping the new Redmi Y3 on April 30, and the 3 GB / 32 GB model will be available for ~US$145, while the 4 GB / 64 GB one will cost ~US$170.