Xiaomi is stepping up its flagship camera phone game with the upcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Leitzphone Edition, recently spotted in the GSMA database. This special edition represents a deepened collaboration between Xiaomi and German optics giant Leica, blending luxury craftsmanship with top-tier mobile photography technology.
The first hint of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra series surfaced with a model carrying the internal code name “P1” and model number “2512BPNDAG.” It is expected to serve as the standard Ultra variant. However, the more intriguing discovery is a second device listed as “25128PNA1G” with the internal code “P1S.” This model carries the official marketing name “Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi,” signaling a premium Leica edition likely named Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition or Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Leitzphone Edition.
Heritage and Partnership with Leica
The “Leitz” name ties back to Ernst Leitz, the founder of Leica, whose family legacy symbolizes optical perfection. Leica’s presence in the smartphone sector is not new; the brand has released the Leitz Phone series in Japan partnering with Sharp. However, the collaboration with Xiaomi appears poised to create the brand’s most significant footprint in the global flagship market.
With Xiaomi’s manufacturing scale paired with Leica’s optical expertise, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition aims to set a new benchmark in smartphone photography. Leaked images of the device’s photography kit reveal a meticulously designed rear camera layout, contradicting previous rumors about a quad-camera setup.
Surprising Shift in Camera Configuration
Instead of a four-camera array, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition features a refined three-camera setup. The design clearly leaves space where a fourth lens might typically be, which suggests Xiaomi prioritized larger and more capable sensors over merely adding more lenses. This engineering choice underscores a focus on sensor quality and imaging performance.
The camera sensors reportedly tested under the code name “Nezha” include:
- Main Camera: 50MP OVX10500U (OV50X)
- Telephoto: 200MP S5KHPE
- Ultra Wide Angle: 50MP OV50M or 50MP S5KJN5
- Front Camera: 50MP OV50M
This configuration highlights the massive 200MP telephoto sensor and a large 50MP primary sensor. The Leica-associated photography kit also includes a grip and filter adapter that transform the smartphone’s handling to mimic a DSLR camera, enhancing the shooting experience.
Performance and Anticipated Features
Under the hood, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Leitzphone Edition is expected to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. It will run Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 and incorporate advanced AI-enhanced Leica imaging algorithms. Leaks also suggest global models will support satellite communication, adding to the phone’s versatility.
Anticipated for release in the fourth quarter of 2025 — inferred from the “2512” prefix in the model numbers indicating December 2025 — this phone targets photography enthusiasts seeking a pocketable professional-grade camera. It underscores Xiaomi’s aspiration to blur the lines between a smartphone and a dedicated camera.
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Leitzphone Edition embodies a strategic move to dominate the premium photography smartphone space. With innovative sensor technology and ergonomic accessories, it aims to offer users exceptional control and quality. Consumers and industry watchers alike will expect this device to redefine flagship mobile photography standards when it officially launches.
