Xiaomi has established a new division called Xring to develop its first custom SoC (System on ????? ????? ??????Chip) after a long history of attempts to enter the field, the Canadian media outlet Wcctech reported on Sunday. The team consists of around 1,000 employees, the report said. Led by a former Qualcomm senior director, Xring operates as an independent entity, likely to avoid US scrutiny that could cut off trade for Xiaomi, as seen with Huawei. Tech tipster @Jukanlosreve revealed on X that, despite skepticism about Xiaomi’s chip manufacturing capabilities, a working prototype was spotted in March, and was nearly identical to what is thought to be the final version. Xring reportedly plans to make an announcement in May, though the release may be delayed according to Wccftech. Last year, it was reported that Xiaomi’s first 3nm chip had achieved tape-out status, a development which could attract US attention. [Wccftech]