Apple, Xiaomi embark in new laptop war as Chinese company invests on Linux

The logo of Sharp Corp is seen reflected on Apple Inc's MacBook Pro at an electronics store in Tokyo in this January 15, 2013 file photo. Apple Inc suppliers will begin mass producing displays as early as May 2014 for the next iPhone, expected to be launched this autumn, with a 4.7-inch screen likely to be produced first while a 5.5-inch version could be delayed, supply chain sources said. Japan Display Inc, Sharp Corp and South Korea's LG Display Co Ltd have all been tapped to make the screens, said the sources, who asked not to be identified. Reuters

Xiaomi's recent product releases and market performance have got experts talking that it is the next big thing in the smartphone market -- possibly a contender against giants like Apple and Samsung. It appears the Chinese company will be challenging Apple further with a new laptop venture slated for 2016. Apple, however, will not be sitting idly waiting for new competition as it files for a new Macbook patent.

Xiaomi earned the market's attention after it sold affordable smartphones with features similar to premium phones. The company -- which expanded its product lines to tablets, TVs and other gadgets -- can soon release a laptop, which many see as potential bid against Apple.

According to Bloomberg, the company is targeting to release a notebook in the first quarter of next year, just in time to compete with premium computers like Lenovo's ThinkPad and Apple's Macbook Air. Sources familiar to the matter said the plan is still private. Xiaomi has been in talks with Samsung for memory chip supply. Samsung and Xiaomi declined to issue a statement on the matter.

The sources, who refused to be identified, said that initial agreement with Samsung also included supply of displays. As with other Xiaomi products, the upcoming laptop is expected to come with an affordable price tag and a Linux-based system.

Whereas Xiaomi is banking on the promise of a new laptop venture, Apple is not waiting idly on the sidelines. The company has reportedly filed a patent discussing a fuel cell system to power up the Macbook. According to the patent first spotted by 9to5mac, the fuel system technology can support the Macbook "for days or even weeks without refueling." The patent further discusses several potential fuel sources -- all to be mixed with water. As such, fuel cells can serve as a power source provided it is mixed with a fuel like hydrogen or an oxidising agent like oxygen or water.

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