Xiaomi is once again preparing to redefine smartphone photography with its most anticipated upcoming flagship, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. According to a reliable Chinese tipster, Digital Chat Station, the device will feature a large circular camera module and introduce groundbreaking imaging technologies that will set a new standard for smartphone cameras.
The highlight of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is its industry-leading main camera sensor, which is the largest on any smartphone. As per previous leaks, this will be a new 50MP Omnivision OV50X 1-inch type sensor. This is not the first time Xiaomi has used a 1-inch sensor. Previous generation Ultras have also used a 1-inch sensor, but what really makes the 17 Ultra special is that it will be the only Ultra flagship with a 1-inch sensor in 2026. This move signifies Xiaomi’s continued commitment to pushing the boundaries of sensor size.
Tipster also mentioned that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will also debut an exclusive new telephoto technology that goes beyond traditional periscope lenses. The new Telephoto technology here may refer to the 200MP Continuous Optical Zoom technology, which is the first of its kind on a smartphone. Xiaomi has also developed a new external lens solution, which also has new features, whose performance is said to surpass any existing external teleconverter systems currently available in the market. This advancement could allow users to capture distant subjects with unprecedented clarity and precision, bridging the gap between smartphone and professional-grade camera zoom capabilities.
On the design front, the 17 Ultra adopts a new premium gold color finish, embracing its identity as a luxury imaging flagship. With all these advancements and technological breakthroughs, Xiaomi 17 Ultra looks like a serious contender for an ultra-high-end smartphone releasing next year.
