This is how to buy a Xiaomi 17 Pro or Pro Max in Europe anyway
The Xiaomi 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max are enjoying unprecedented popularity. These phones feature a remarkable second screen on the back. So it was disappointing to hear that Xiaomi would not be releasing both phones in Europe. But with a workaround, you can still get your hands on them. We explain how.
The Xiaomi 17 series consists of the entry-level Xiaomi 17, the 17 Pro, the 17 Pro Max and the 17 Ultra. A Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition of the latter is also available with swivel ring around the camera. Xiaomi announced an international version only of the Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra which have yet to be released at the time of writing.
Where can you buy the Xiaomi 17 Pro (Max)
?
Still, you can buy any model from the Xiaomi 17 series already. By ordering them as imports. For example, there are special providers operating that buy the models from Asia for you and ship them to your address. Just keep in mind the risks involved in importing from outside the EU. But first: where can you buy the devices?
- Xiaomi 17 Pro for €757 at TradingShenzhen
- Xiaomi 17 Pro Max for €847 at TradingShenzhen
- Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition for €1297 at TradingShenzhen
Besides TradingShenzen, providers like Wonda Mobile, GizTop and BlueDiode are also examples where you can buy Xiaomi phones that have not been released internationally. The price does not differ much but it is worth comparing the offerings before buying.
Look out for software limitations
But what all do you run into when importing a phone? First of all, there's the software. So on models that are not available internationally, but only in China, you also get the Chinese software (ROM). The interface supports English by default. If you want another language, then for that SetEdit. This app allows you to select a new system locale without root access, such as nl-NL for Dutch. By the way, this method works for all Xiaomi, Oppo and Vivo phones you import from China.
The limitations: Android Auto and Wear OS
Despite changing the system language, some apps remain in Chinese, especially those also intended for the Chinese market. You can remove these as you wish. What doesn't work is Android Auto because of its deep integration with Google Services. Something that unfortunately also applies to Wear OS watches and the Timeline feature in Google Maps.
Further, it remains to be seen how often and for how long updates arrive. For example, you get the updates from China and therefore some features or apps are targeted to the Chinese market. The app Google Pay should theoretically work but on Internet forums there are varying sounds. For example, some banking apps work and others do not. Possibly this is due to the lack of SafetyNet; Google's built-in security mechanism.
Hardware and 4G support in the Netherlands
On the hardware front, there are few concerns. For example, the Xiaomi 17 Pro and Pro Max just work in the Netherlands and on any network. Only the devices do not support Band 32 (1400 MHz). Dutch providers use this frequency to increase the download capacity of the 4G network. You experience little or no inconvenience as a user due to the lack of support for this band.
The financial risk: warranty and VAT
Be mindful of the warranty, though. By importing, Dutch consumer law does not apply. Does your device break down? Then you often have to pay the cost of shipping it back to China yourself. It remains to be seen how the repair will proceed and whether you will ever see your device or money again. And finally, there's another point to consider: import fees. You have to pay 21% VAT plus customs clearance fees for phones outside the EU. And the shipping itself also costs money.
So is importing phones like the Xiaomi 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max worth it? That depends entirely on your situation. If you're less attached to mobile banking or are willing to take the gamble then you can get a phone for a competitive price that none of your friends have. One with unique features like a secondary screen on the back on which you can play games.
Or how about the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition with camera features you won't find in Europe. Or the Honor Power with its giant silicon-carbon batteries of 8000 mAh large. Thus, despite a huge battery capacity, you still have a compact smartphone that lasts for days without interim charging.
