Xiaomi 17 Ultra Gets Photography Kit Accessories Globally at MWC 2026

Xiaomi has unveiled the Photography Kit and Photography Kit Pro accessories for its new Xiaomi 17 Ultra flagship smartphone during Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona. The accessories, previously exclusive to the Chinese market, are now available globally as Xiaomi positions its latest flagship to compete directly with Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra, currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon.

Photography Kit Pro: Leica-Inspired Professional Controls

The Photography Kit Pro represents Xiaomi's most ambitious camera accessory yet, designed to transform the smartphone experience into something closer to using a traditional camera. The accessory features a built-in 2,000 mAh battery that provides extended shooting time without draining the phone's internal power. A removable shutter button offers tactile feedback for precise shot timing, while a non-slip PU grip mimics the ergonomics of classic Leica cameras.

Perhaps most notably, the Photography Kit Pro introduces a dedicated Fastshot mode with enhanced controls. This feature allows photographers to capture images more quickly and with greater precision than the standard camera interface, addressing one of the key limitations of smartphone photography - the delay between deciding to take a shot and actually capturing it.

Priced at €199.90 (approximately $235), the Photography Kit Pro is available in a single black finish, maintaining a professional aesthetic that aligns with Leica's design philosophy. The accessory is IP54 certified, providing protection against dust and water splashes.

Standard Photography Kit: Lighter Alternative

For users seeking a more streamlined option, Xiaomi offers the standard Photography Kit at €99.90 (around $118). The company claims this variant is lighter and more compact than its Pro counterpart, making it more suitable for everyday carry.

Despite the reduced size, the standard kit maintains several professional features. A customizable two-stage shutter button allows for focus and capture separation, similar to traditional camera operation. A dedicated video recording button provides quick access to video mode, and a wrist strap adds security during active shooting.

The standard Photography Kit expands on color options, available in Black, Purple, and White finishes. Like the Pro version, it carries IP54 certification for environmental protection.

Launch Strategy and Pricing

Both accessories are available at steep discounts when purchased alongside the Xiaomi 17 Ultra before March 14, 2026. This bundling strategy encourages early adoption and provides additional value to customers investing in Xiaomi's flagship device.

The timing of these accessories is strategic, as Xiaomi launches the 17 Ultra alongside the standard Xiaomi 17 and the Leica Leitzphone, creating a comprehensive camera-focused product lineup. By bringing these accessories to global markets, Xiaomi addresses a key differentiator that previously gave Samsung's Galaxy S series an advantage in the premium smartphone segment.

Technical Specifications and Compatibility

While specific dimensions weren't provided in the initial announcement, the Photography Kit Pro's 2,000 mAh battery suggests it's designed to significantly extend shooting sessions. The non-slip PU grip material indicates Xiaomi prioritized ergonomics and comfort for extended use.

The customizable shutter buttons on both variants suggest software integration that allows users to adjust button behavior based on their shooting preferences. This level of customization is typically found in dedicated camera equipment rather than smartphone accessories.

Market Positioning

Xiaomi's decision to launch these accessories globally demonstrates the company's confidence in the Xiaomi 17 Ultra's camera capabilities and its commitment to the premium smartphone market. By offering accessories that enhance the photographic experience, Xiaomi is targeting photography enthusiasts who might otherwise choose Samsung's Galaxy S26 Ultra or Apple's iPhone Pro models.

The €199.90 price point for the Photography Kit Pro positions it as a premium accessory, while the €99.90 standard version offers a more accessible entry point. This tiered approach allows Xiaomi to capture different segments of the photography enthusiast market.

The accessories will be available through Xiaomi's official channels and select retail partners globally, with regional pricing potentially varying based on local taxes and import duties. Customers can expect availability to begin immediately following the MWC 2026 announcement, with shipping timelines dependent on geographic location.

For photographers considering the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, these accessories represent a significant value addition, potentially tipping the scales in favor of Xiaomi's offering over competing flagship devices. The combination of extended battery life, enhanced controls, and Leica-inspired design creates a compelling proposition for mobile photography enthusiasts.