A Design Centered on Photography
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra makes its intentions clear from the moment you unbox it. Unlike the Pro and Pro Max models that mimic mainstream designs, the Ultra leans entirely into the aesthetic of a classic rangefinder. The back features a two-tone texture, with a grippy bottom section and a smooth top third. The branding is intentionally horizontal, signaling that this device is meant to be held like a camera.
Xiaomi has prioritized the Leica partnership over its own branding; the Leica logo appears more frequently than the Xiaomi name. The inclusion of a dedicated wrist strap lanyard and a metal lens cap further reinforces the idea that this is a professional tool for creators.
The Triple-Threat Camera System
At the heart of the device is a camera setup that defies typical smartphone physics:
- The Main Sensor: A massive 1-inch, 50-megapixel sensor at f/1.67. This large physical size provides a natural, shallow depth of field and incredible detail that software-based “portrait modes” can’t replicate.
- The Ultra-Wide: A 14mm equivalent lens with a 50-megapixel sensor, offering one of the widest and highest-quality ultra-wide experiences on the market.
- The Variable Zoom: A 200-megapixel telephoto lens that features a real, continuous optical zoom from 75mm to 100mm. This allows for smooth zooming between 3.2x and 4.3x without any digital cropping.
The Innovative Camera Ring
Perhaps the most unique hardware feature of 2026 is the physical metal ring surrounding the camera plateau. While it moves fluidly, haptic feedback simulates the mechanical “clicks” of a traditional aperture or focus ring.
This ring is highly customizable. By default, it can be used as a quick-launch shortcut or a zoom control. However, in “Pro Mode,” users can map it to adjust exposure value, shutter speed, white balance, or even act as a true manual focus ring. This physical interaction provides a level of control and tactile satisfaction that touchscreens simply cannot match.
Leica Authenticity and Essential Modes
The partnership with Leica goes deeper than just branding. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra includes specific “Leica Essential” modes that emulate legendary Leica hardware and film stocks.
- The M9 Mode: Emulates the classic M9 sensor with daylight white balance and a distinct, organic color profile that looks less “processed” than standard smartphone photos.
- The M3 Mode: A dedicated monochrome mode that emulates Leica Mono 50 film, complete with high contrast, reduced dynamic range, and authentic film grain.
A Flagship Under the Hood
While the focus is on the camera, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra remains a powerhouse smartphone. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with LPDDR5X RAM, ensuring the 200MP captures and 8K video processing are near-instant. The device features a massive 6.9-inch display with 3,500 nits of peak brightness, making it easy to compose shots even in direct sunlight. Despite the moving camera ring, the phone maintains a full IP69 rating for dust and water resistance, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice durability for innovation.
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