Xiaomi has introduced a new Bluetooth speaker, the R500, which also functions as a magnetic phone stand, according to Stuff South Africa. The device was reported on by the outlet on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
The R500 is designed to hold a smartphone via magnetic attachment while playing audio, combining two common desk accessories into a single unit. Stuff South Africa notes that the speaker's stand functionality is a key feature, allowing users to prop up their phones during calls, video playback, or other tasks.
A separate report from Notebookcheck, also cited in the coverage, indicates that the R500 is priced at approximately $30. The magnetic attachment suggests compatibility with phones that support magnetic mounting, though the specific details of the magnetic system were not elaborated in the available reporting.
The launch adds to Xiaomi's expanding lineup of audio accessories, which have increasingly focused on multi-functional designs. The R500 appears aimed at budget-conscious consumers who want a compact speaker that also serves a practical phone-holding role. Neither report provided full technical specifications, such as battery life, sound output, or connectivity options, so those details remain unconfirmed.
The R500's combination of a low price and dual-purpose design could make it a notable option in the entry-level speaker market. However, its success will likely depend on how well the magnetic stand holds phones during everyday use, a factor not addressed in the initial reports.
What to watch next: Whether Xiaomi expands the R500's magnetic stand feature to other speaker models or releases additional accessories that use the same mounting system.
