1. Xiaomi is a Chinese company and the word Xiaomi means "millet" in Chinese. Millet is a staple food in China, just like rice. However, Xiaomi chose to name their company after millet as it symbolizes the company's values of being innovative, healthy, and value for money.
2. The name Xiaomi also sounds more unique and memorable compared to "Dami" (Chinese for large rice). By choosing a distinctive name, Xiaomi stands out in the crowded market of technology companies, making it easier for consumers to remember their brand.
3. Additionally, during the early stages of the company's history, Xiaomi was actually producing custom ROMs for Android smartphones, and their custom ROM was called MIUI, pronounced "Me You I." So by extension, the name Xiaomi also implied that a user could have their own customized smartphone experience.
4. Finally, choosing the name "Dami" would limit the brand's appeal to just a Chinese audience. With a name like Xiaomi, the brand has a more global appeal and can easily be recognized and pronounced in many different languages.