Xiaomi is looking to double the number of smartphone shipments in 2014, growing from 20 to 40 million units. One of the world’s fastest-growing handset makers certainly has what it takes to make this happen, and with former Googler Hugo Barra on its side, Xiaomi seems set for the global expansion.

According to some reports, we may see the Chinese firm having its own booth at the upcoming CES and Las Vegas, and we tend to think they’ll use the big show to announce their “quest to the West.”

It’s not that easy, though. Most people get their phones from mobile operators, and it will be crucial for Xiaomi to struck a deal with one of the major U.S. carriers. Moreover, it would have to repeat that practice with many more carriers all around the world to make its rather awesome products available in new markets. As I’m writing this, Xiaomi’s phones are available in mainland China and perhaps few surrounding countries…

[Via: FoneArena]