The Xiaomi 17 Ultra was previously rumored to include a single, “more capable” telephoto camera instead of two. However, it wasn’t clear how exactly it would improve image quality. Now, we have more information—and it’s much more exciting. Leaked screenshots of the camera app, shared on Weibo, reveal more details about the telephoto setup of the upcoming flagship.
The images show standard zoom presets at 0.6x, 1x, and 2x. However, the telephoto section appears to allow smooth zooming between 3x and 4.3x, covering focal lengths from 70mm to 100mm. The interface also includes references to a “Leica 200MP continuous optical zoom” system, pointing to genuine optical adjustments rather than a multi-lens solution.
The predecessor, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, features two telephoto cameras: a 50MP 70mm lens and a 200MP 100mm lens, with shots taken between 70mm and 100mm relying on digital zoom from the shorter telephoto. Most top-of-the-line flagships today rely on this multi-lens approach because it’s easier to manufacture and implement. However, a continuous optical zoom system can offer superior image quality. It’s also relatively rare in the smartphone space, which could help the Xiaomi 17 Ultra stand out from its competitors.
Sony has been testing and refining this technology for its smartphones for some time. The Xperia 1 IV from 2022 offered a continuous optical zoom between 3.5x and 5.2x. The company has continued to expand that range and now offers a 3.5x–7.1x optical zoom on its 2025 flagship, the Xperia 1 VII. Now, it appears Xiaomi may be joining that short list.
Combined with a large 200MP ISOCELL HPE sensor measuring 1/1.4 inches, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra should offer far more flexibility than its predecessor and most competitors with fixed telephoto lenses.
Beyond the new telephoto camera, the leak also mentions a Leica APO lens and a new 1-inch main sensor, further reinforcing Xiaomi’s focus on photography for this model.
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is rumored to launch in China this week, with global availability expected later. If the leaks are accurate, Xiaomi could be setting a new benchmark for smartphone zoom performance.
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