Xiaomi Begins Mass Production of Modular Camera

Xiaomi's innovative modular camera accessory, first unveiled as a concept at the Mobile World Congress last year, has entered mass production and could hit the market as early as this year, according to reports from reliable industry sources.

The device, known as the Modular Optical System, attaches magnetically to the back of compatible smartphones, transforming them into more advanced photography tools. It features a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is significantly larger than the typical sensors in flagship phones, paired with a 35mm equivalent focal length lens and a variable aperture ranging from f/1.4 to f/11. This setup allows for manual focus adjustments and native 2x zoom through pixel binning, aiming to deliver DSLR-like image quality with better depth of field and low-light performance.

Data from the module transmits to the phone at speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second via a proprietary near-infrared or laser-based connection, enabling the transfer of lossless RAW files for real-time processing. The phone handles image computation, storage, and serves as the viewfinder and controls, eliminating the need for cables or a separate battery in the accessory. It draws...