Microsoft has an unusually cosy relationship with Chinese OEM Xiaomi . Microsoft has crafted a Windows 10 Mobile ROM to run specifically on their Mi 4 handset, and in turn the company has released a number of Windows 10 tablets.

Now the latest rumour from China is that Xiaomi is planning to release a Windows 10 Mobile version of their upcoming flagship Mi 5 handset.

The device would apparently be identical, including running the powerful Snapdragon 820 processor and is expected to be launched at a simultaneous event in China and Mobile World Congress 2016 on February 24th, suggesting we may also see an international release outside China of the handset.

Other specs include 4 GB RAM and 16, 64 and 128 GB storage, NFC and dual-SIM.

Do our readers think 3rd party OEMs can fill the void Microsoft left in their 2016 line-up? Let us know below.