The rumour of the JV might surprise some (it did surprise us too) but on closer inspection, you can see similarities between the two companies as regards their household automation aspirations. Xiaomi has been releasing devices like rice cookers and water purifiers, while YU has been trying to bring out software solutions like Around YU and fitness bands. The Famili brand will allow both brands to pool their not inconsiderable resources and bring to the Indian market a whole new array of household automation products. Our sources say that the first array of products will include hair dyeing robots, palm freezers, roti (Indian bread) making machines and Post Rajma Gas Dispensers, as well as Dal/Pulse Purifiers. Needless to say, these devices would also be designed to work with the smartphones of YU and Mi, which actually hints at some collaboration on the software side. Considering that both companies have been following very different UI strategies – Xiaomi prefers its MIUI interface while YU has dabbled with Cyanogen and Stock Android – this could be quite a challenge. And in a very unique spin, the devices will be sold both online or offline, but the delivery will be via drones, which are co-developed by Yu and Mi. This sales strategy has evidently been codenamed The Famili Way. Yu + Mi = Famili. Sounds neat, doesn’t it. Stay tuned for more news about its childre..er…products. (PS: In case, you haven’t already guessed it, this article was published on April 1.)
