While many may fall for this being a pre-order of the Indian K20 Pro, there are many small-scale issues with these Aliexpress ads that should consumers many reasons to worry about their purchase. For starters, in the description of the device, it lists that is powered by a global ROM, which is currently not available on the K20 Pro. This could mean that the device is either running a “garage” ROM -a version of the OS that is typically poorly optimised and made by a small name, thus gaining its name - or simply a version of the Chinese ROM with the Google Apps installed by the user.

But the issue with the device’s ROM does not stop there, as Xiaomi’s bootloader app often locks a device to a certain Xiaomi account after the device is unlocked, meaning that a factory reset post purchase would not be possible. This was an issue that happened early in the Pocophone F1’s life, leaving many customers unhappy with their purchases.

What’s more puzzling is that the Indian version, which is now confirmed to come towards the end of the month, will only launch with the Chinese bands, as we discussed in our previous article. What this means is that for the next foreseeable future, there is no true global K20 Pro device.

Things You Should Know

It is important to distinguish between a Global ROM and a Global Version. A Global ROM is simply a piece of software that will include global apps such as Facebook, and Youtube. Meanwhile a Global Version implies that the device itself is difference, more often than not featuring the bands for countries outside of China.

If a Global ROM becomes available in the future, it will be possible to download that ROM and install it on a Chinese device. On the other hand, a phone “version” has to be purchased either from an importer or in your market if you live outside of China.

A last pointer to lookout for, is that Aliexpress stores do not usually have access to phone pre-orders, as Xiaomi is very quick to announce and launch their devices in China. In case a global version is ever announced, local technology shops are your best bet in purchasing a legitimate device that works as expected.