In the current domestic Android smartphone market, the sales performance of the Xiaomi 17 series has undoubtedly left its competitors green with envy. However, with a steady stream of new models from various brands hitting the market, Xiaomi now finds itself in a 'besieged' position. To break free from this encirclement, it naturally needs to keep rolling out new models, and this critical task has been entrusted to Redmi. The main successor in this lineup is the highly anticipated K90 series. The problem, though, lies in the fact that recent leaks have largely exposed the functional configurations of both the standard and Pro versions, leaving everyone to wonder what surprises are still in store. Thus, the official has stepped in to clear the air: a new member of the K series is on the horizon.

Lu Weibing himself made the announcement during a livestream that the K90 Pro Max will soon make its grand entrance. This also sheds light on a previous leak from a third party, which hinted that Redmi phones would make a foray into the 4000 yuan price range. Initially, it was believed that even with upgrades, the starting price of the K90 Pro would not exceed 4000 yuan. Now, it seems that Redmi has an 'ace' up its sleeve, as the official claims it will dominate the 4000 yuan price segment.

Such a bold declaration is bound to ruffle some feathers among competitors and may even have the Xiaomi 17 in its sights. Indeed, the K90 Pro Max does run the risk of stealing the spotlight from its older sibling, as third-party sources have already revealed that it will feature innovations not seen in the Xiaomi 17. What these innovations are will likely remain shrouded in mystery until the official launch. In fact, it's not just third parties teasing users; even official personnel are engaging in cryptic hints. For instance, the Redmi product manager claimed that the K90 Pro Max is a product of Xiaomi Group's utmost commitment, boasting a new form factor and even greater breakthroughs.

Although the official has been tight-lipped about the Redmi K90 Pro Max, some aspects can be pieced together. For instance, third-party leaks suggest a significant leap in imaging capabilities, practically confirming that the Pro version will feature a 50-megapixel periscope telephoto lens, while the Pro Max is likely to sport a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto lens, presumably to go toe-to-toe with similar offerings from rival brands.

Predicting the new form factor is trickier. Some speculate it might incorporate a back screen similar to its parent model, but I personally think this is unlikely. After all, doing so would dilute the unique selling point of the Xiaomi 17 Pro series, making it harder to sell. A more plausible scenario is a redesign of the imaging module. Whether this will be a case of 'same old, same old' in a new package remains to be seen until the launch event. As for what 'new track' implies, my interpretation is that it signals an upgrade in positioning, with the capability to take on top-tier flagships.

Some may wonder if the formidable capabilities of the K90 Pro Max will sway users away from the Xiaomi 17 series, luring them to the Redmi camp. This concern is likely unfounded, as the Xiaomi 17 series will undoubtedly have its own set of strengths. In my view, one key role of the K90 Pro Max is to attract users from rival brands. The term 'upgrade in positioning' generally refers to revealing one's trump card early, possibly indicating Redmi's intention to target a higher-end market. With this move, it will be intriguing to see how competitors respond.

As for the price, I speculate that the starting price will climb to 4099 yuan. I'm curious to know how many of you here would find that acceptable.