Xiaomi 17 Ultra Set to Redefine Mobile Photography With Leica Cameras and Physical Zoom Ring
Xiaomi is set to launch the Xiaomi 17 Ultra in China on December 25, featuring a Leica-tuned triple camera system, a physical zoom ring, 8K video support and a 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, positioning it as the flagship of the Xiaomi 17 series.
At the center of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s appeal is its newly confirmed Leica-tuned triple rear camera system. Departing from the quad-camera setup seen on its predecessor, Xiaomi has opted for a more refined three-camera configuration aimed at delivering professional-grade imaging. One of the standout additions is a physical zoom ring integrated around the circular camera module, offering users tactile control over zoom levels—an uncommon feature in modern smartphones and a clear nod to traditional camera design.
According to leaks and official teasers, the triple camera array is expected to include a periscope telephoto lens capable of continuous optical zoom ranging from 3x to 4.3x. This telephoto unit is reportedly based on Samsung’s HPE sensor, designed to enhance clarity and detail at varying focal lengths. The primary camera is said to feature a customised 50-megapixel, 1-inch OmniVision sensor with optical image stabilisation, aimed at improving low-light performance and dynamic range. Complementing the setup is a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera using Samsung’s JN5 sensor, designed to capture expansive scenes without significant distortion.
Beyond hardware, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to include a suite of advanced imaging features, such as Leica lenses, laser autofocus, a colour spectrum sensor and support for high-resolution video recording up to 8K. These additions underscore Xiaomi’s ongoing partnership with Leica and its focus on positioning the Ultra series as a serious contender in the premium camera phone segment.
The device is also rumoured to feature a large 6.82-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3200 pixels and a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. With a claimed peak brightness of up to 3,500 nits, the display is expected to deliver strong outdoor visibility and vibrant visuals. Protection is likely to come in the form of Xiaomi Shield Glass 2.0, while support for HDR10+, HDR Vivid and Dolby Vision is expected to enhance the viewing experience across streaming and multimedia content.
As anticipation builds ahead of the December 25 launch, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra appears poised to make a strong statement in the flagship smartphone market. By combining premium display technology with an innovative camera system and a distinctive physical zoom mechanism, Xiaomi is signalling its intent to compete aggressively with top-tier rivals in both performance and mobile photography innovation.

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