Xiaomi 17 Ultra introduces Leica 200‑million‑pixel optical zoom, first to earn Leica APO certification
Xiaomi founder Lei Jun has shared new details about the upcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra, confirming that the flagship phone will debut a completely new 200‑million‑pixel optical zoom system. The telephoto module supports true optical output across a 75-100 mm focal range, rather than relying on digital cropping. It is also the first smartphone lens in the industry to receive Leica APO optical certification, a standard typically reserved for high‑end professional lenses in the camera world.
The telephoto system uses a 3G+5P dual floating lens structure paired with a large 1/1.4‑inch sensor. According to Lei Jun, this design represents a next‑generation long‑range zoom solution aimed at delivering higher clarity, reduced chromatic aberration, and more consistent performance across the entire zoom range.
Alongside the new telephoto module, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra also features a redesigned Leica 1‑inch "Light and Shadow Master" main camera. It uses Xiaomi's new Light and Shadow Hunter 1050L sensor and integrates LOFIC high‑dynamic‑range hardware technology. This allows the camera to capture significantly more detail in high‑contrast, low‑light scenes while reducing overexposure and preserving subtle tonal transitions.
On pricing, Xiaomi Group President Lu Weibing has already stated that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will see a price increase compared to the previous generation. He explained that the costs of the processor, camera hardware, and memory have all risen sharply. Even so, he emphasized that the device will still offer strong value for money. The combination of a 1‑inch LOFIC main sensor and a 200‑million‑pixel telephoto module is expected to remain unique in the 2026 flagship market. (No official price has been announced yet, but increases are expected in both USD and RMB.)
Xiaomi, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Beijing, is one of China's largest consumer electronics manufacturers. The company is known globally for its smartphones, smart home devices, and IoT ecosystem, and it has built a strong reputation for delivering high‑spec hardware at competitive prices. Xiaomi collaborates closely with partners such as Leica to enhance its imaging capabilities, positioning its Ultra‑series phones as premium photography‑focused flagships.
