Xiaomi is gearing up to launch the Redmi Note 14 SE 5G in India on July 28, marking its return to the competitive budget smartphone segment. The phone comes with a promise of killer specs and killer price, though early information suggests that this might be a refreshed version of an already existing device, the Redmi Note 14 5G.
This won’t be the first time Xiaomi has used the “SE” (Special Edition) branding. Back in 2022, the brand introduced the Redmi Note 11 SE, which was essentially a repackaged Redmi Note 10S.
Over time, Xiaomi admitted to flooding the market with too many Redmi Note models, which caused consumer confusion. The company then streamlined its launch strategy and focused more on premium models, especially through its Leica camera partnerships.
That said, Xiaomi hasn’t entirely moved away from its roots. The Redmi Note 14 SE is being introduced as part of the company’s 11-year celebration in India, aimed at offering a well-rounded phone at a lower price point. However, many of its specifications appear to mirror those of the standard Redmi Note 14.
The Redmi Note 14 SE 5G will feature a 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,100 nits peak brightness, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5. Under the hood, it is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra SoC, expected to handle daily tasks and moderate gaming with ease.
One of the highlights is the 50MP Sony LYT-600 main camera sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), promising sharper images and steadier videos.
The phone is also tipped to offer an in-display fingerprint sensor, dual speakers with Dolby Atmos, and a 5,110mAh battery, likely with fast charging support, although exact charging specs haven’t been confirmed yet.
In terms of design, the Redmi Note 14 SE looks nearly identical to the Redmi Note 14, with the only major difference being the new burgundy-red colour variant, giving it a fresh look.
The Redmi Note 14 SE 5G is expected to be priced lower than the Redmi Note 14 series, which starts at ₹18,999 in India. Whether it comes with a charger in the box or other cost-cutting measures remains to be seen.
As Xiaomi revives the SE branding, all eyes are on how the company positions this phone amid growing competition in the budget segment.
