Xiaomi’s authorized group introduced at present {that a} large-scale, coordinated on-line smear marketing campaign concentrating on the corporate has been uncovered. A number of suspects are actually below felony investigation by Chinese language authorities. The operation, which has been energetic since December 2024, has reportedly intensified amid latest controversies surrounding Xiaomi’s automotive division.
In response to Xiaomi, the perpetrators used automated content-generation instruments to manufacture false claims and deployed practically 10,000 social media accounts to unfold defamatory posts. Ways included rumour-mongering, inciting public hostility, and manipulating on-line discourse to wreck Xiaomi’s picture whereas boosting rivals.
Xiaomi founder and CEO Lei Jun shared the authorized group’s assertion on social media: “The web isn’t a lawless zone. Xiaomi will resolutely use authorized measures to guard our authentic rights towards slander and malicious assaults.”
The revelations come simply days earlier than Xiaomi’s high-profile product launch occasion of the YU7 SUV on Might 22, and its first in-house smartphone chipset, the Xring O1. Constructed on a second-generation 3nm course of node, the Xring O1 represents a big R&D milestone, with over 13.5 billion yuan (1.86 billion USD) invested. Xiaomi goals to place the chip as a flagship-class different to choices from trade giants.
Business analysts word that the marketing campaign’s timing may level to industrial motives as Xiaomi expands aggressively into the electrical car and semiconductor sectors. Authorities proceed investigating whether or not rivals or industrial entities orchestrated the defamation effort.
The corporate’s agency authorized response additionally comes amid a string of public controversies:
- Deadly SU7 crash: A March 29 accident in Anhui involving an SU7 sedan resulted in three fatalities after the car hit a barrier and caught hearth. The tragedy raised issues over Xiaomi’s driver-assistance methods, door-lock mechanisms, and battery security.
- SU7 Extremely’s “twin air duct” scandal: After receiving their automobiles in April, SU7 Extremely house owners discovered the marketed “purposeful” carbon fibre hood ducts have been purely ornamental. Xiaomi apologised on Might 7 and supplied partial compensation, however over 400 house owners rejected the supply and employed authorized counsel. Regulators closed the case with out discovering wrongdoing, suggesting shoppers pursue civil motion.
- Entrance bumper warping complaints: Stories of warped entrance bumpers on early SU7 fashions have been linked to materials flaws and warmth publicity. Xiaomi gives free repairs and app-based insurance coverage claims however continues to face scrutiny over high quality management.
- Horsepower lock backlash: A software program replace restricted the SU7 Extremely’s output to 900 hp except house owners accomplished a racetrack lap in “Rating Mode.” The transfer drew backlash for limiting marketed efficiency. Xiaomi later reversed the replace and pledged higher transparency.
