Xiaomi Redmi Pad 2: Budget 9.7-inch tablet expected to launch globally

Xiaomi is preparing to expand its Redmi Pad 2 lineup with a smaller 9.7-inch variant, according to recent certifications discovered on the GSMA database. The new tablet, identified by model numbers 2604ERP4DG (global), 2604ERP4DC (China), and 2604ERP4DI (India), represents a strategic move to capture different market segments with varying screen sizes.

This development comes just months after the original Redmi Pad 2 launched in June 2025 with an 11-inch display. The certification reveals minimal details beyond the screen size, but industry sources suggest the tablet will launch in both LTE and Wi-Fi-only configurations. Interestingly, the Wi-Fi-only version may be rebranded as the Poco C Pad for certain markets, following Xiaomi's strategy of leveraging its sub-brands to target different consumer segments.

The original 11-inch Redmi Pad 2 set a solid foundation for this smaller variant. Our review found it to be a capable budget tablet, featuring a quad-speaker setup that delivers surprisingly good audio quality for its price point. The high-contrast LCD display provided vibrant visuals, while the MediaTek Helio G100 Ultra chipset, built on a 6nm process, offered smooth performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.

Camera capabilities on the original model were modest but functional, with an 8MP rear camera and 5MP front-facing shooter suitable for video calls and document scanning. The 9,000mAh battery provided excellent endurance, easily lasting through a full day of mixed use, with 18W wired charging support for relatively quick top-ups.

Priced at €199 in the Eurozone, the 11-inch Redmi Pad 2 positioned itself as an attractive option in the budget tablet segment. The 9.7-inch variant is expected to maintain similar pricing, potentially making it even more competitive given the smaller form factor's advantages in portability and one-handed use.

The timing of this expansion is noteworthy, as Xiaomi recently released its flagship Pad 8 series in global markets. This dual-pronged approach—offering both premium and budget options—demonstrates Xiaomi's commitment to capturing the entire tablet market spectrum.

For consumers, the 9.7-inch size represents an interesting middle ground between traditional 10-inch tablets and smaller 8-inch devices. It offers better portability than larger tablets while still providing ample screen real estate for media consumption, reading, and productivity tasks. The potential Poco C Pad rebranding could also bring this device to markets where Xiaomi's direct presence is limited, expanding its reach through the Poco brand's established distribution channels.

The certification's appearance typically precedes a launch by several weeks to months, suggesting we could see official announcements in the coming months. As with previous Redmi Pad releases, availability may vary by region, with some markets receiving the standard Redmi branding while others get the Poco variant.

This expansion of the Redmi Pad 2 lineup reflects broader trends in the tablet market, where manufacturers are increasingly offering multiple sizes and configurations to appeal to diverse user needs. Whether for students, professionals, or casual users, the combination of competitive pricing, decent specifications, and Xiaomi's software ecosystem makes the Redmi Pad 2 series an option worth watching in the budget tablet segment.