Xiaomi's latest imaging flagship combines Leica craftsmanship with significant hardware upgrades, featuring a continuous optical zoom telephoto camera and aerospace-grade durability.
Xiaomi has unveiled its 17 Ultra flagship in two distinct variants: a standard model and the premium Leica Edition. Both versions represent meaningful upgrades over previous generations, particularly in imaging capabilities and durability. The Leica Edition distinguishes itself with exclusive design elements inspired by classic M-series cameras, including knurled metal framing and specialized photography features.
At the core of both models lies the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor built on a 3nm process. This Qualcomm chipset features a dual-cluster architecture with Oryon V3 Phoenix cores clocked at 4.6GHz and 3.62GHz respectively, paired with Adreno 840 graphics. The processor drives a substantial 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED display with industry-leading specifications: 3500-nit peak brightness, 2160Hz PWM dimming, Dolby Vision support, and Dolby Vision certification. Unlike its curved predecessors, Xiaomi adopts a completely flat panel this generation.
The camera system undergoes strategic refinement while maintaining versatility. The primary 50MP 1-inch sensor carries over from previous Ultras, but gains improved computational photography through HyperOS 3 optimizations. The standout upgrade appears in the telephoto module - a 200MP sensor with continuous optical zoom ranging from 3.2x to 4.3x magnification. This replaces the dual-telephoto array used previously while adding multi-directional PDAF capable of focusing from just 30cm. Xiaomi pairs this with a new 50MP ultra-wide lens and upgrades the front camera to 50MP with autofocus.
Powering the device is a substantial 6800mAh battery supporting 90W wired charging (using USB-PD 3.0/PPS standards) and 50W wireless charging. Notably, the Leica Edition includes dual-satellite communication capabilities alongside the standard IP68/IP69 rating for enhanced durability. Aerospace-grade glass fiber reinforcement and a silicone polymer back material contribute to structural integrity.
The Leica Edition offers exclusive additions: a dedicated security encryption chip, Leica Moment shooting modes that emulate classic film profiles, and distinctive design elements. The retail package includes premium accessories like a magnetic case, lens cap, and cleaning cloth. Despite the 90W charging rating, Xiaomi includes a 100W charger in the Leica Edition box.
Running Android 16 with HyperOS 3, the device maintains Xiaomi's ecosystem connectivity through MIHC protocol for accessory integration. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 with LHDC 5 support, and infrared. The ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor remains alongside stereo speakers.
This iteration represents Xiaomi's continued focus on professional mobile photography while addressing practical concerns like battery life and durability. The removal of the secondary telephoto lens simplifies the camera array without sacrificing versatility, thanks to the continuous zoom implementation. For imaging enthusiasts invested in Xiaomi's ecosystem, the Leica Edition offers tangible hardware differentiation beyond cosmetic changes.
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