On September 26, 2026, Xiaomi officially unveiled an innovative accessory called the Pocket Guitar, designed to radically expand the functionality of the Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max flagship smartphones. The device is a portable MIDI panel that attaches to the back of the mobile unit via magnetic connections. This development is aimed at mobile musicians and enthusiasts who want to integrate the creative process directly into the ecosystem of their smartphones.
Design Features and Functionality
The uniqueness of the Pocket Guitar lies in its foldable architecture. When closed, the device protects the smartphone's secondary display, and when unfolded, it transforms into a full-fledged interface for performing music. The first section of the device is equipped with physical buttons for selecting chords (from I to VII degrees), while the second part mimics guitar strings thanks to a special textured surface that recognizes presses and the intensity of user touches.
Technical Specifications and Battery Life
The gadget is equipped with a compact 630 mAh lithium-polymer battery. According to official specifications, the claimed battery life reaches 30 days of standby time with moderate usage. Charging is performed via a standard USB-C port, ensuring unification with the smartphone's primary charger. The device fully synchronizes with the proprietary Xiaomi Music Studio app, allowing users to record played melodies instantly.
Availability and Market Strategy
Currently, the Pocket Guitar is available exclusively for purchase in the Chinese market. The starting price of the gadget is set at 599 yuan, which is approximately 90 US dollars. Analysts suggest that if the experiment in China is successful, Xiaomi may consider expanding the sales geography of this accessory, positioning it as a must-have addition to its premium mobile device lineup.
