As mobile gaming and resource-intensive applications become more prevalent, smartphone manufacturers are increasingly seeking solutions to combat overheating. Following Honor’s lead, Xiaomi is reportedly developing a smartphone with a built-in cooling fan-a feature previously reserved for gaming-focused brands like RedMagic-according to recent reports. Teh device, likely a Redmi K90 ultra, represents a growing trend toward more robust thermal management in smartphones.
A growing trend among Chinese smartphone manufacturers – integrating active cooling fans directly into device builds – is gaining momentum. Following Honor’s recent move, Xiaomi is now reportedly preparing to launch a phone featuring a built-in fan.
According to prominent leaker Digital Chat Station, Xiaomi is currently testing a device powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 9500 SoC, which will include an upgraded cooling system. This upgrade centers around the integration of a fan located near the camera bump.
While the specific model remains unconfirmed, sources suggest the device is likely the Redmi K90 Ultra. This smartphone would represent the top-tier offering in the Redmi K90 series, building upon the Redmi K90 and Redmi K90 Pro Max models that debuted late last year.
Rumors surrounding the specifications of the Redmi K90 Ultra have begun to surface. Expected to launch around mid-2026, the device is reportedly set to feature a 6.8-inch LTPS OLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, a metal frame, an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, and a substantial 8,000mAh battery.
The Rise of Smartphones with Internal Fans
Several Chinese brands are now actively competing in this space. RedMagic has consistently offered devices with internal fan cooling, and now companies like OPPO (with the K13 Turbo), Honor (Honor WIN), Huawei (Mate 80 GTS), and now Xiaomi are joining the trend. This push for enhanced cooling reflects the increasing demands of mobile gaming and processor-intensive applications.
Integrating a fan internally aims to maintain stable temperatures even during extended, demanding tasks like gaming. This mirrors the internal fan systems found in laptops, now being adapted for increasingly slim smartphone designs.
The question now is whether these smartphones with internal fans will remain exclusive to the Chinese market or expand globally, similar to RedMagic’s 11 Pro. Further details are expected as the launch date approaches. You can find more information about the developing story at GSM Arena.
