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Abroad in Japan · Thursday, July 9, 2026

Podcast hosts discuss Xiaomi phone pronunciation and purchase experience in Japan

Chris and Pete discuss the correct pronunciation of Xiaomi phones in Japan, noting that it is pronounced "She-ow-me" rather than "Zee-oh-mee." Pete recounts his experience buying a Xiaomi Ultra 17 at Bic Camera in Shibuya and the confusion caused by the pronunciation difference.

companyXiaomicompanyBic Camera

The tape

3 quotes
I am currently rocking what can only described as a brand new phone that I bought in Bic Camera in Shibuya.
Pete Donaldson
I'll tell you what, if you ever try and buy a Xiaomi phone in Japan, um, do know that it's pronounced Xiaomi rather than Xiaomi.
Pete Donaldson
Um, I spent a long time going, have you got any Xiaomi phones? Or Xiaomi phones. But it's not Xiaomi, it's Xiaomi.
Pete Donaldson
Heard on Abroad in Japan — “Why This Japanese Whisky Sold For An Astonishing $1,050,000!, published Thursday, July 9, 2026. Heardvine summarizes and quotes with attribution and timestamps, and links to the original everywhere.
Transcribed via Gemini audio transcription · $0.05
Podcast hosts discuss Xiaomi phone pronunciation and purchase experience in Japan — Heardvine