Speaking at WSJ.D Live, former Googler and head of Android Hugo Barra, who is now the vice president of Xiaomi, praised the latest iPhone 6 from Apple. Barra called the device “the most beautiful smartphone ever built.” He also responded to criticisms about Xiaomi and how the Chinese company appeared to be unabashedly copying Apple’s design.
According to Barra, “Our designers, our engineers are inspired by great products — and frankly, in today’s world, who isn’t? Point me to a product in our industry that has completely unique design language. You’re not going to be able to find one.” Barra also carefully pointed out that even Apple had borrowed some design from time to time.
For example he cites some similar design language between the iPhone 6 and HTC’s own smartphone efforts, and he also pointed out how iOS’ quick settings feature was available on Android long before. “Quick settings on iOS is much better on Android, but it was on Android (long before).”