Xiaomi 17 Ultra is set to elevate smartphone photography with its innovative telephoto camera system featuring continuous optical zoom. Unlike common multi-lens setups, this phone offers a smooth zoom range from 3x to 4.3x, corresponding to focal lengths between 70mm and 100mm.
Earlier rumors suggested that Xiaomi 17 Ultra would have a single high-quality telephoto camera instead of the dual-lens system seen in its predecessor. Recent leaks now clarify the device’s ability to deliver true continuous optical zoom rather than relying on digital zoom or multiple fixed lenses. The phone maintains familiar zoom steps at 0.6x, 1x, and 2x, but the highlight is its seamless 3x to 4.3x optical zoom level.
This advancement is significant because most flagship smartphones use multiple telephoto lenses with fixed focal lengths. For example, Xiaomi 15 Ultra featured a 50MP lens at 70mm and a 200MP lens at 100mm, switching between them digitally to simulate intermediate zoom levels. Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s continuous optical zoom removes this limitation, enabling superior image quality across the full zoom spectrum.
Sony has long been a pioneer in integrating continuous optical zoom on smartphones. Devices like the Xperia 1 IV and Xperia 1 VII demonstrate zoom ranges up to 7.1x using this technology. Xiaomi’s adoption of continuous zoom technology shows the company’s intent to compete on the same level, bringing enhanced versatility to mobile photography enthusiasts.
The continuous zoom function on Xiaomi 17 Ultra is reportedly paired with a large 200MP ISOCELL HPE sensor measuring 1/1.4 inches. This sensor size allows more light capture, improving detail and clarity even at higher zoom levels. Additionally, the phone is expected to feature a Leica APO lens and a 1-inch primary sensor, underscoring Xiaomi’s focus on premium imaging performance.
The user interface reportedly highlights the “200MP Leica continuous optical zoom,” signaling genuine optical zoom hardware rather than software tricks. This development can set Xiaomi apart from competitors who mostly rely on fixed focal length telephoto cameras and extensive computational photography.
In summary, Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s telephoto camera with continuous optical zoom from 3x to 4.3x is a rare feature in smartphones. It promises smoother zoom transitions, better image quality throughout the zoom range, and a more adaptable photographic experience. This positions Xiaomi as a strong contender in the flagship camera arena, providing an innovative alternative to traditional multi-lens telephoto systems.
