Xiaomi challenges Huawei executive's claims in smartphone patent dispute

Xiaomi, the Chinese smartphone manufacturer, has contested statements made by Huawei's senior executive, Yu Chengdong, accusing him of significantly misrepresenting facts related to patent issues among rival firms.

During a recent company event, Yu Chengdong raised concerns about patent infringement, specifically referring to "dragon bone" technology. While not explicitly naming Xiaomi, the remarks were widely perceived as targeting Xiaomi, which had previously highlighted its "dragon bone" hinge technology during the launch of the Xiaomi MIX Fold 3.

Xiaomi countered these claims, asserting that its hinge technology was developed independently. In a statement, Xiaomi called on Yu to adhere to "basic scientific and rigorous standards" and cease unfair criticism of competitors or the dissemination of misleading information to the public.

Moreover, Xiaomi underlined that its patent includes additional components not covered by Yu's referenced patent. Xiaomi pointed out that the patent mentioned by Yu was only made public in June 2021, months after Xiaomi had publicly disclosed details about its "dragon bone" technology.

Huawei, the sixth-largest smartphone maker in China, has not yet responded to requests for comment. This dispute unfolds against the backdrop of heightened competition in China's smartphone market, with both Xiaomi and Huawei intensifying their efforts in the high-end segment. This is not the first time the two companies have clashed; in 2018, they engaged in a public dispute over smartphone camera specifications.

(With Reuters inputs)