Xiaomi’s brand might only have limited exposure in the West, but its certainly a popular company back home. It is often referred to as the Apple of China, and its smartphones are a big deal in the country. Xiaomi has its sights set on the world and its definitely working on expanding sales in new markets around the world. The company’s Chairman Le Jun projected through Sina Weibo, China’s equivalent of Twitter, that Xiaomi plans on doubling its smartphone sales this year, suppling at least 40 million units.
The company has certainly managed to raise its sales over the past couple of years. In 2013 it was able to sell over 19 million units, double that of what it managed to sell back in 2012. It helps that Xiaomi has managed to get an ex-Android honcho from Google, Hugo Barra, to spearhead its expansion efforts. Barra has already said that he’s trying to find markets and establish Xiaomi’s presence there “as quickly as possible.” Expansion in new markets will be key in attaining its target of 40 million units in 2014. Its evident that Xiaomi wants to play in the big leagues with companies like Samsung and Apple, if its able to continue with this momentum, perhaps it just might be able to give them a run for their money. Its certainly a company to keep your eye on.