The new Xiaomi 17 Ultra design has been revealed through leaked images circulating on Chinese social media platform Weibo. These photos showcase the phone’s rear with a recognizable circular camera module, continuing Xiaomi’s signature design element from previous Ultra models. Despite rumors suggesting a shift to a rectangular camera setup similar to the Xiaomi 17 Pro, Xiaomi chooses to maintain this iconic circular arrangement.
This circular module houses three primary cameras instead of four, signaling a strategic reduction in quantity but an increase in quality and performance. The design also includes a periscope telephoto lens positioned at the bottom of the module and additional dual flash and supporting sensors, possibly ToF or color temperature sensors, enhancing overall camera functionality.
Camera Configuration: High-End Triple Setup
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is set to feature three powerful camera sensors aligned with the latest imaging technology. According to trusted sources such as Weibo user Smart Pikachu:
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Primary Camera: A 50 MP sensor measuring 1 inch, likely the OmniVision OV50X. This sensor is significant for mobile photography, delivering superior light capturing, especially in low-light conditions, enhancing image clarity and dynamic range.
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Periscope Telephoto Camera: A groundbreaking 200 MP sensor stands out as the phone’s flagship highlight. Using advanced pixel-binning technology, it can produce 12.5 MP images with exceptional detail and support optical zoom capabilities up to 10x or higher.
- Ultra-Wide Camera: A 50 MP sensor offers wide-angle shots with high resolution, perfect for landscapes and architectural photography.
This setup indicates Xiaomi’s effort to optimize the quality of each lens rather than increasing the number of cameras, allowing for better image fidelity and specialized functions.
Enhanced Leica Collaboration: Optical Improvements
Xiaomi deepens its partnership with Leica by incorporating new optical coatings and hardware layers on the lenses. This approach enhances light transmission up to 99%, reduces lens flare and ghosting, and corrects optical distortion at the hardware level instead of relying solely on digital post-processing filters.
The upgraded Leica optics aim to deliver authentic photographic experiences, bringing the smartphone camera’s output closer to what professional Leica cameras provide.
Performance and Battery: Flagship Hardware
Under the hood, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, built on a 2nm fabrication process. This processor provides improved power efficiency and a new Adreno GPU designed for smooth gaming at 120 FPS. Its AI engine processes up to 50 TOPS, boosting computational photography and virtual assistant capabilities.
A notable upgrade comes in the form of a 7,000 mAh battery, a 1,000 mAh increase over its predecessor. This bigger battery is expected to support over two days of typical usage, or a full day of intensive use including gaming and photography, making it highly suitable for power users and content creators.
Xiaomi’s Quality-Focus Strategy
This device reflects Xiaomi’s current strategy of reducing model variants while emphasizing innovation and quality. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra exemplifies this by focusing on fewer but more powerful and refined components. The transition from a four-camera to a three-camera setup underscores Xiaomi’s commitment to delivering superior quality rather than just quantity in flagship smartphones.
Launch Schedule and Market Expectations
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is anticipated to launch in China during the fourth week of December 2025, accompanied by complementary products such as the Xiaomi Band 10 Pro and new AI-powered camera accessories. Global release is likely to follow early 2026, aiming to compete directly with devices like the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra and the iPhone 18 Pro Max.
With its advanced camera system, enhanced Leica optics, robust battery, and distinctive circular design module, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is positioned as a leading contender in the premium smartphone segment for 2025. Enthusiasts looking for a versatile and powerful photography-centric phone should watch closely as this flagship prepares to enter the market.
