Xiaomi 17 Ultra to Launch in China with Leica Lens Tech

Xiaomi is preparing to launch its flagship Xiaomi 17 Ultra smartphone in China next week, introducing advanced camera technology developed in collaboration with Leica that includes the industry's first apochromatic-certified telephoto lens.

The device, the premium addition to the Xiaomi 17 series that already includes the 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max models, is set to debut as early as December 26, according to reports and teasers shared by the company on Weibo. This launch marks a departure from the typical timeline for Xiaomi's Ultra models, which have historically arrived in February or March alongside global events like Mobile World Congress. A global release is anticipated in the first quarter of 2026, though specifics remain unconfirmed.

At the heart of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is an upgraded partnership with Leica, shifting from joint research and development to a co-creation model where the two companies jointly develop hardware and software. Xiaomi has highlighted this collaboration as enabling significant advancements in mobile photography. The phone will feature a triple-camera rear setup in a circular module, similar to the Xiaomi 15 Ultra but reduced from four lenses. Key...