Xiaomi is set to redefine smartphone photography with its upcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra, slated for a December 25, 2025 launch in China. This flagship model features a groundbreaking 200 MP periscope telephoto sensor developed in collaboration with Leica, promising superior zoom capabilities that rival major competitors such as the Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The camera’s periscope sensor measures a substantial 1/1.4 inch, offering continuous optical zoom from 3× to 4.3× (equivalent to 75 mm to 100 mm focal lengths). This enables users to capture detailed, bright images without digital cropping, maintaining color accuracy and sharpness even at higher zoom levels. Teasers released by Xiaomi demonstrate consistent color reproduction and clarity, validating the camera’s advanced technology beyond marketing claims.
Advanced imaging features underpin the Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s performance. The phone incorporates Xiaomi’s “LOFIC” ultra-high dynamic range technology, enhancing image quality in challenging lighting situations. Low-light portrait samples indicate strong subject separation with low noise and natural skin tones, an essential requirement for nighttime and portrait photography.
Another highlight is the newly introduced “Red Carpet Camera” mode designed to deliver cinematic portrait photos. Though details remain limited, the mode aims to emulate professional film aesthetics with refined focus and smooth tonal gradations that elevate portrait quality to new artistic heights.
The collaboration between Xiaomi and Leica is deeper than branding alone. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition will debut alongside the standard model, underscoring joint development efforts focused on optical performance and image fidelity. Leica’s APO (apochromatic) lens technology and innovative lens structures approximate traditional optical solutions, helping Xiaomi close the gap with or surpass other flagship devices noted for their zoom systems.
Key camera specifications and features include:
1. 200 MP periscope telephoto sensor (1/1.4-inch)
2. Continuous optical zoom range: 3× to 4.3× (75 mm–100 mm)
3. Leica-developed APO optics and lens design
4. LOFIC ultra-high dynamic range for improved contrast
5. Low-light portrait capabilities with natural skin tones
6. “Red Carpet Camera” cinematic portrait mode
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s technological advancements position it as a formidable contender in the high-end smartphone market for 2026. By focusing on combining sensor resolution, robust zoom optics, and computational photography enhancements, Xiaomi aims to deliver one of the best mobile photography experiences available globally. Ahead of its official unveiling, Xiaomi continues to build anticipation through teaser images showcasing the device’s camera prowess.
With this launch, Xiaomi challenges industry leaders like Samsung and Apple by providing a unique blend of high-resolution imaging and zoom flexibility, setting a new bar for smartphone cameras in the year ahead.
