Xiaomi Confirms Major Camera Upgrades for 17 Ultra

Xiaomi has shared additional details about its upcoming 17 Ultra flagship ahead of its expected launch next week. The company focused on camera technology, outlining a deeper partnership with Leica and confirming key imaging hardware upgrades.

Xiaomi confirmed that it has extended its strategic partnership with Leica, moving from a joint research and development arrangement to what it described as a “co-creation model.” According to the company, this shift means closer collaboration between the two firms across both hardware and software development.

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be the first device to launch under this new co-creation framework. Xiaomi said future devices will also benefit from this deeper level of joint development.

In a post shared on Weibo, Xiaomi said the 17 Ultra will introduce a “new generation of optical system solutions.” The company highlighted the telephoto camera as a major focus.

Xiaomi confirmed that the phone will feature the industry’s first Leica Apochromatic (APO) certified telephoto lens. APO lenses are designed to reduce chromatic aberration and improve color accuracy, particularly in challenging lighting and high-contrast scenes.

According to Xiaomi, users can expect noticeable improvements in low-light photography, along with better detail retention in scenes with strong contrast.

Xiaomi also confirmed that the 17 Ultra will use a 1-inch type image sensor for its main camera. The company said the sensor was developed specifically for mobile devices, reinforcing the phone’s positioning as a camera-focused flagship.

Xiaomi has not yet disclosed full camera specifications or sample images. Additional details are expected to be revealed at the official launch next week.