South China Morning Post
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Xiaomi’s computer mouse probably speaks more languages than you. (Picture: Xiaomi)
AbacusNews Bites

Forget smart speakers like Alexa, Xiaomi has a smart mouse that can talk

  • The Chinese smartphone maker’s new mouse can also be your digital assistant, voice recorder and translator
Xiaomi
Masha Borak
Masha Borak
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Ever wish your computer mouse could tell you jokes? Xiaomi does. The Beijing-based smartphone maker is looking to make computer peripherals more conversational with the new Xiao Ai mouse.

Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, the mouse went on sale on Wednesday. With its built-in microphone, the mouse doubles as a smart speaker equipped with Xiaomi voice assistant Xiao Ai. It can record and transcribe your messages, help control smart home products and even act as a translator. It currently recognizes Chinese, English, Korean and Japanese.

During the crowdfunding campaign, people could pick up the mouse for 129 yuan (US$18). Now the retail price is 149 yuan (US$21), but it can currently be found for less on Taobao.

(Abacus is a unit of the South China Morning Post, which is owned by Alibaba, the operator of Taobao.)

Xiaomi is no stranger to peculiar crowdfunding projects. Past campaigns include a massage pillow with integrated speakers and a smart garbage bin that automatically opens its lid when you reach for it. The company remains best known for affordable consumer gadgets like smartphones and laptops. But it’s also expanded into smart home products over the years, seeking to lock people into its Mi Ecosystem.
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