Xiaomi has introduced an innovative accessory for its new flagship models, the Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max. This magnetic device, announced as the Xiaomi 18 Pro Pocket Guitar , transforms the phone’s back screen into a music control interface.

This special accessory, which attaches to the back of the phone with a magnet, folds and sits on top of the secondary screen, working in an integrated form with the Changba application. Thus, the back screen ceases to be merely an area for displaying notifications and transforms into a guitar-like control panel.

Design that Transforms the Back Screen into a Music Interface

The Pocket Guitar is offered in two different color options: black and red. The accessory’s body is specially designed to separate into two parts around a hinge.

One section contains physical controls representing the cord knobs, while the other features a textured surface with raised protrusions to create a cord feel. Besides its music playback function, the accessory can also be used as a small phone stand when folded in the opposite direction.

The accessory’s operating system is based on Changba, a China-based karaoke and singing app. Users can connect the accessory to their phone via Bluetooth and then access the dedicated performance section within the app to begin their music experience.

The two different usage options offered here create a more streamlined, phone-based music experience rather than simply replicating the control logic of a real guitar. In tuning mode, users can create rhythms by pressing the numbered tuning knobs I through VII with their left hand while tapping the textured surface with their right hand.

The rhythm mode offers a simpler experience, focusing primarily on the user capturing the rhythm. In this mode, it’s not necessary to select the correct tuning, and all other operations are performed automatically by the Changba app.

Technical Specifications and Device Compatibility

Rear screen support is limited to the Xiaomi 18 Pro series due to its hardware structure. On other Xiaomi phones and iPhone models using iOS 14 or later, Pocket Guitar can connect to the Changba app.

However, performance and recording features cannot be used via the rear screen on these devices. On these models, playing, browsing music, and tuning are done via the front screen of the phone.

The accessory has a 630 mAh battery, and Xiaomi states that it offers up to 30 days of use on a single charge. Charging is done via USB Type-C, while connection with the phone is established via Bluetooth.

The retail price of Pocket Guitar in China is 599 yuan, which is approximately $90. The product is available for sale on JD.com and is now accessible to users.

This new product from Xiaomi reveals a different use case for smartphones’ secondary screens, combining them with physical accessories instead of just using them for notifications or auxiliary applications. Do you think these physical music accessories developed for the rear screens of smartphones are practical enough for daily use?