Xiaomi has recently expanded its product lineup with the launch of the Xiaomi Pad 8 on March 10, 2026, followed by the flagship Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra on March 11. The introduction of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra marks a significant advancement in the company’s smartphone offerings, particularly in the realm of photography.
Key Features
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, ensuring high performance and efficiency. It boasts a large one-inch 50MP main camera sensor with an f/1.67 aperture, designed to capture stunning images in various lighting conditions. Additionally, the device includes a 200MP telephoto camera with variable focal length zoom, further enhancing its photographic capabilities.
To complement its impressive camera system, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra supports two Leica photography add-ons: the Photography Kit and Photography Kit Pro. This collaboration with Leica has been noted for its authenticity, with observers stating, “The partnership with Leica feels real and not a corporate gimmick.”
Display and Battery
The smartphone features a 6.9-inch flat display with a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smooth user experience for both gaming and media consumption. The device is equipped with a robust 6000mAh battery capacity, supporting 90W wired charging, which allows for quick power-ups during use.
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is available to order, with a starting price of £1299 for the 16GB+512GB model. This pricing positions the device as a premium offering in the competitive smartphone market.
Reactions and Future Outlook
Initial reactions to the Xiaomi 17 Ultra have been positive, with users expressing satisfaction with its photography capabilities. One user remarked, “If you are a point-and-shoot photographer, the experience is reassuring,” indicating that the device is user-friendly for both amateurs and professionals alike.
Experts believe that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra could serve as a viable option for professional work, such as special shoots for magazines. Observers note that the Leica partnership appears deeper than collaborations seen with other brands, suggesting a commitment to quality and innovation in smartphone photography.
As the market continues to evolve, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to set new standards in mobile photography, with many anticipating further developments in this area.
