Xiaomi 17 Ultra and 17T Series Launch: A New Era for Mobile Photography
Xiaomi has launched its 17 Ultra smartphone in China, with an expected release in the UK and wider Europe in the coming months, alongside two mid-range models, the 17T Pro and 17T. The devices feature various camera hardware and software upgrades, with comparisons drawn between the 17 Ultra and its predecessor, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
Camera Specifications and Technology
Xiaomi 17 Ultra
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra's primary camera utilizes a 1-inch-type sensor, specifically the new LightFusion 1050L sensor. This replaces the Sony LYT-900 chip used in previous models. The LightFusion 1050L incorporates LOFIC HDR (Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor High Dynamic Range) technology, which captures HDR images from a single exposure.
According to Xiaomi, this technology achieves dynamic ranges of approximately 20 stops, compared to the 12-15 stops typical in current smartphones and professional mirrorless cameras. Apple, Samsung, and Sony are also reported to be developing similar LOFIC sensors.
The device includes an ultrawide camera and a 200-megapixel telephoto zoom lens with continuous optical zoom ranging from 75mm to 100mm equivalent focal lengths.
Xiaomi continues its partnership with Leica. The main camera is branded as the "Leica Ultra Dynamic Camera" and incorporates Leica-certified APO optics. A special edition model, the "Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica," will feature the Leica red dot logo, a custom Leica photography application, Leica color tones, and a physical ring on the rear for focus, zoom, or exposure compensation.
Xiaomi 17T and 17T Pro
Both the 17T Pro and 17T feature 5x telephoto cameras, high-refresh-rate displays, and silicon-carbon batteries.
The Xiaomi 17T Pro includes:
- A 6.83-inch AMOLED display (1.5K resolution, up to 144 Hz refresh rate, peak brightness 3500 nits).
- A 50 MP main camera (f/1.67, OIS) with a Leica lens, a 50 MP 5x telephoto (f/3.0, OIS, up to 120x AI zoom, macro), and a 12 MP ultrawide.
- A MediaTek Dimensity 9500 (3 nm) processor.
- A 7000 mAh battery with 100W fast charging.
The Xiaomi 17T includes:
- A 6.59-inch AMOLED display (1.5K resolution, up to 120 Hz refresh rate, peak brightness 3500 nits).
- A 50 MP main camera (f/1.7, OIS), a 50 MP 5x telephoto (OIS), and a 12 MP ultrawide. The main camera does not feature a Leica lens.
- A MediaTek Dimensity 8500-Ultra (4 nm) processor.
- A 6500 mAh battery with 100W fast charging.
Both models include a new "Leica Live Moment" feature, described as similar to Live Photos, available across all sensors.
Camera Performance Comparison: Xiaomi 17 Ultra vs. Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Analysis of camera performance between the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has noted several differences across various shooting scenarios.
Portrait Photography
In portrait comparisons using the 23mm main camera, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra demonstrated a higher dynamic range, attributed to its new Lofic sensor. At the 100mm focal length, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra's portrait images exhibited increased brightness despite a smaller aperture. Differences in shutter speed and ISO values were also observed between the two models.
In one specific portrait comparison, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra's image was reported to present a more natural rendition of the face, while the corresponding Xiaomi 17 Ultra image showed visible artifacts and reduced clarity.
Ultra-Wide, Wide, and Zoom Lens Performance
For photographs taken with the 14mm ultra-wide angle, 23mm wide angle, and 10x zoom lenses, particularly in night conditions, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra consistently produced results described as superior. The ultra-wide lens on both models uses the 50MP ISOCELL JN5 sensor. The improved output on the 17 Ultra suggests algorithmic refinements.
Night Photography
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra demonstrated a performance advantage over the Xiaomi 15 Ultra in night photography tests.
Other Specifications
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon Elite Gen 5 chip. It will be offered in configurations with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of storage.
The Chinese version of the phone includes a 6,800 mAh battery with 90W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. Regional variations in battery capacity may occur. The device has an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance and measures 8.29mm at its thinnest point.
Pricing and Availability
- Xiaomi 17T Pro: Priced at £799 (approx. $1070).
- Xiaomi 17T: Priced at £650 (approx. $871).
Both mid-range models are available online and at select Xiaomi stores in the UK and Europe. No official US availability has been announced.