Vivo X300 Ultra: First camera sample showcases insane 70x zoom

Vivo's product manager Han Boxiao has shared the first camera sample from the upcoming X300 Ultra, revealing what the company claims is the most powerful smartphone zoom system available in 2026. The sample demonstrates the device's ability to capture usable images at an unprecedented 70x magnification, achieved through a combination of optical and digital zoom technologies.

The sample photo shows two distinct shots: a standard 35mm capture with an f/1.85 aperture, followed by an extreme 1600mm equivalent image taken with the 400mm teleconverter at f/2.55. This configuration allows the X300 Ultra to maintain image quality even at 4x digital zoom beyond the optical limit, though pixel-level examination reveals some degradation at maximum zoom.

What's new in the X300 Ultra camera system

The X300 Ultra builds upon Vivo's established telephoto extender technology, introducing a new G2 200mm telephoto extender that's 27% lighter than previous models at just 153g (5.4 oz). This reduction in weight and size makes the accessory more portable while maintaining professional-grade optical performance. The teleconverter now works with 14 camera modes, including Live Photo and various video capabilities, expanding creative possibilities for mobile photographers.

Han Boxiao recently shared a comparison showing all three generations of Vivo teleconverters, highlighting the significant size reduction in the new 2.35x model. This evolution demonstrates Vivo's commitment to making professional photography accessories more accessible and practical for everyday use.

How it compares to competitors

The X300 Ultra's 70x zoom capability significantly outpaces the competition. While the Oppo Find X9 Ultra offers a 10x telephoto camera with a 300mm teleconverter, it cannot match the reach provided by Vivo's 400mm optical system. The combination of a 200MP 85mm telephoto camera with the 400mm teleconverter creates a unique imaging solution that bridges the gap between smartphone and dedicated camera systems.

In terms of aperture, the X300 Ultra's f/2.55 telephoto setup is slightly slower than the X200 Ultra's f/2.3 configuration but still considerably faster than the X300 Pro's f/2.7 telephoto lens. This balance between reach and light-gathering capability represents a thoughtful approach to extreme zoom photography.

Who it's for

This camera system is designed for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and anyone who needs extreme telephoto reach without carrying dedicated camera equipment. The ability to capture detailed images of distant subjects makes it ideal for safari photography, sports events, and other situations where physical proximity is limited.

The X300 Ultra's main camera has also received significant upgrades, moving from a 1/1.28-inch 50MP sensor in the X200 Ultra to a 1/1.12-inch 200MP sensor. Despite the slightly slower f/1.85 aperture compared to the X200 Ultra's f/1.7, the larger sensor size should provide improved low-light performance and greater dynamic range.

Technical specifications and capabilities

The 35mm main camera's f/1.85 aperture represents a minor compromise compared to its predecessor, but the substantial increase in sensor size and resolution should offset this change in many shooting scenarios. The 200MP resolution provides greater flexibility for cropping and digital zoom while maintaining acceptable image quality.

The telephoto system's performance at 400mm optical zoom, combined with 4x digital zoom for a total 1600mm equivalent, demonstrates Vivo's engineering prowess in mobile photography. The ability to deliver usable results at such extreme focal lengths on a smartphone platform represents a significant achievement in computational photography and optical design.

For photographers who frequently work in situations requiring extreme reach, the X300 Ultra offers a compelling alternative to carrying multiple lenses or a dedicated super-telephoto camera system. The integration of professional features like teleconverters with smartphone convenience could redefine expectations for mobile photography in challenging shooting conditions.