Xiaomi Technology, a prominent Chinese smartphone maker, has made no secret of its desire to become China's answer to Apple. In pursuit of this goal, Xiaomi has mimicked much of Apple's marketing strategy in an effort to develop a strong fan base among the country's young trendsetters.

Ultimately though, Xiaomi seems to have failed to recognize that there is more to Apple's success than simply clever marketing.

Since the start, Xiaomi has depended on low prices to build customer loyalty rather than innovative designs or functional features. This is not the way to keep customers coming back and not a good strategy when trying to cultivate the kind of fashionable image Apple has pulled off so well.

What's more, Apple has already developed a wide range of core products and consumers who enjoy its computers and other gadgets will naturally be drawn to its phones. Xiaomi, on the other hand, appears to have its sights only on the smartphone market.

The author is Zong Ning, a media personality.