Outsiders challenge traditional smartphone makers

LeTV Holdings Co Ltd, a Beijing-based technology company, known for its online video-streaming services, unveiled three types of handsets - Le One, Le One Pro and Le Max - on April 14, in a bid to challenge Apple's iPhone 6 Plus and Mi Note, produced by another Chinese smartphone maker, Xiaomi Corp.

It was the first time LeTV has released smartphones. Using a low price strategy, LeTV defeated Lenovo in the smart TV sector in 2013. The company said its first electric vehicle will come out soon. The car, rivaling Tesla Motors Inc's automobiles, is being developed in the US and will likely be made in the country.

In China, there are few barriers to entry for smartphone makers, which means there are some great opportunities, as well as fierce competition. Besides traditional smartphone makers, some outsiders have been especially keen to produce their own mobile devices, including Gree, Meitu, Dakele and DaQ smartphones.

Let's take a look at some up and coming smartphone makers in China.

Jia Yueting, founder, chairman and CEO of LeTV speaks during the company's smartphone launching ceremony held on April 14, 2015 in Beijing. [Photo/CFP]