Tag: Xiaomi 17 Ultra

  • Xiaomi 18 Ultra Prices to Increase Threatening Camera Flagship Phones

    Xiaomi 18 Ultra Prices to Increase Threatening Camera Flagship Phones

    Key Takeaway

    1. Chinese ultra flagship smartphones like Xiaomi 17 Ultra are currently among the most affordable high-end camera phones, with prices comparable to other premium flagships.
    2. Rising component costs, especially for memory, threaten the financial viability of Ultra models, potentially leading manufacturers to cut development costs or halt Ultra model production.
    3. Price ceilings around €1,250 in the Chinese market limit Android flagship pricing, risking sales declines if manufacturers raise prices further, possibly resulting in price increases up to €2,000 in the future.

    The Xiaomi 17 Ultra costs slightly over €1,400 in Germany, making it, surprisingly, one of the most affordable “Ultra” branded flagship phones. Interestingly, its price is quite close to that of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, which many see as struggling to keep up with Chinese Ultra models, and is not much less expensive in the same storage configuration. Upcoming high-end models from Vivo, like the Vivo X300 Ultra, are predicted to hit European markets with a price tag of nearly €2,000 if they come with 1TB of storage, showing how premium these new phones are becoming.

    Market Challenges for Chinese Flagships

    It’s kinda uncertain how much Oppo will tag for their Find X9 Ultra when they finally bring it to Europe. But overall, Chinese brands’ top-tier camera flagships are facing some kinda big obstacles right now. An insider, Ice Universe, posted long thoughts on X about it, though the source of this info isn’t clearly known. The rising costs, especially for memory, might soon make Ultra flagships a poor choice for companies since maintaining profit margins could get almost impossible, mostly in China.

    Price Limits and Consumer Limits

    There seems to be a price cap around 10,000 yuan (€1,250) inside China, where Android flagships have traditionally struggled against Apple’s iPhones. Android brands are hesitant to hike prices constantly because sales might take a big hit. To save money, they might have to cut down on camera development or even stop working on Ultra models altogether. An Indian leaker, Yogesh Brar, lately said that the next wave of flagships from Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo could face financial issues, hinting at a rough road ahead for pricing strategies.

    Future Models and Market Expectations

    At least, the development of upcoming models like the Vivo X500 Ultra, Oppo Find X10 Ultra, and Xiaomi 18 Ultra is still ongoing, according to Yogesh. But if they decide to cancel any of these, it probably won’t happen until mid-2026. Kartikey Singh pointed out that the Xiaomi 18 Ultra’s development isn’t canceled yet, but we should expect price hikes next year. Fans of high-end Chinese camera phones might see prices soaring to around €2,000 more often, but whether many consumers will want to pay that much is still a big question.

  • New Leak Reveals Next-Gen Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Details

    New Leak Reveals Next-Gen Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qualcomm launched the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset in September 2025, featured in premium smartphones like Xiaomi 17 Ultra and OnePlus 15.
    2. Upcoming chipsets include Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 and 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, with the latter rumored to have a codename “SM8975” and advanced 2nm manufacturing.
    3. Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro may feature a 2+3+3 CPU arrangement, A850 GPU, and compatibility with LPDDR6 memory.
    4. The standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, known as “SM8950,” will also use 2nm technology but with an A845 GPU and LPDDR5X memory.
    5. Qualcomm may introduce a mid-range Snapdragon 8 Gen 6, but specific details on its specifications remain undisclosed.


    In September 2025, Qualcomm introduced its top-tier chipset, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. This powerful chipset is at the heart of several premium smartphones, including the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, OnePlus 15, and gaming-focused devices like the RedMagic 11 Pro (currently priced at $799 on Amazon). There are whispers of two new versions coming in the next flagship series: the standard 8 Elite Gen 6 and the 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.

    Details on Upcoming Chipsets

    Trusted leaker Digital Chat Station on Weibo has shared insights about both chipsets. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro is rumored to go by the codename “SM8975.” According to the tipster, it will be manufactured using TSMC’s advanced 2nm process and will feature a 2+3+3 CPU arrangement. On the graphics side, it could incorporate an A850 GPU along with 18MB of GMEM. It’s anticipated to be compatible with LPDDR6 memory, although LPDDR5X might also be available, featuring an 8MB last-level cache.

    Differences Between the Models

    On the other hand, the regular Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 is expected to be known as “SM8950.” This version is said to also utilize the 2nm technology and the same CPU structure but will have variances in other specifications. It might use an A845 GPU with just 12MB of GMEM, coupled with LPDDR5X memory, and a smaller 6MB last-level cache. The crucial distinction between the two chipsets appears to be in the GPU and memory configurations.

    Potential New Releases

    Additionally, the leak hints that Qualcomm might unveil a mid-range Snapdragon 8 Gen 6. The leaker mentioned that its specifications aren’t as impressive but did not disclose any further information. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series is anticipated to be launched later this year, yet Qualcomm has not officially confirmed any details.

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  • Vivo X300 Ultra Revealed: Official 800mm Camera Samples Before Launch

    Vivo X300 Ultra Revealed: Official 800mm Camera Samples Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo X300 Ultra’s release date is still unknown but is expected to launch with the X300s.
    2. The device aims to compete with high-end models like the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Ultra, priced at $1,299.
    3. The X300 Ultra features an impressive camera setup with a 35 mm main camera and two teleconverters (200 mm and 400 mm).
    4. The new teleconverter allows for high-quality photos at an equivalent focal length of 1,600 mm.
    5. Initial images from the X300 Ultra show good detail and color reproduction, but skepticism is advised until independent reviews are available.


    Officially, there are still lots of things about the Vivo X300 Ultra that we don’t know yet. The release date of the device is also a mystery at this point. Nevertheless, recent teasers suggest that the X300 Ultra will launch alongside the X300s in the same event, aiming to compete with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon.

    Camera Capabilities

    Meanwhile, one executive has been highlighting the impressive camera features of the X300 Ultra on Weibo. Just yesterday, Han Bo Xiao posted several images taken with the smartphone’s 35 mm main camera, along with its 200 mm teleconverter and a new 400 mm teleconverter. He has stated that this new accessory enables the X300 Ultra to take high-quality photos even at an equivalent focal length of 1,600 mm.

    Image Quality

    So far, the executive has only shared example images taken at focal lengths of up to 800 mm. The pictures below show a lot of detail and decent color reproduction from our perspective. However, it’s worth noting that Vivo might have made some edits to these images. Therefore, we suggest being a bit skeptical about them until we see independent reviews later this year.

    Han Bo Xiao’s

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  • Xiaomi 18 Ultra: Early Launch & Quad-Camera System Return

    Xiaomi 18 Ultra: Early Launch & Quad-Camera System Return

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi introduced the Xiaomi 17 series earlier than usual, and this trend may continue with the Xiaomi 18 series.
    2. The Xiaomi 18 Ultra is expected to launch later this year, possibly around the same time as the Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s release.
    3. Non-Ultra variants of the Xiaomi 18 may be released in September, close to Apple’s iPhone launch.
    4. The Xiaomi 18 Ultra is likely to feature a quad-camera setup, returning to a fourth camera after the Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s design.
    5. Details about the new camera lens for the Xiaomi 18 Ultra are still forthcoming, with more information expected soon.


    Xiaomi has kept its usual global launch timeline, but the company introduced the Xiaomi 17 series in China several months ago, which is earlier than they typically do. New reports suggest this trend may continue, particularly for the upcoming Xiaomi 18 series.

    Anticipated Launch of Xiaomi 18 Ultra

    According to the leak from Smart Pikachu, Xiaomi is gearing up to unveil the Xiaomi 18 Ultra later this year, similar to how they released the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. Historically, Ultra versions have been launched in late February, but the Xiaomi 17 Ultra made its Chinese appearance in December. The insider now believes that the Xiaomi 18 Ultra will also debut around the same time this year. Although there are no specific details about the non-Ultra variants, rumors suggest they could be released in September, coinciding closely with Apple’s iPhone launch.

    Exciting Camera Innovations

    In a more intriguing development, the Xiaomi 18 Ultra is likely to feature a quad-camera arrangement. The company opted to remove the secondary telephoto lens for a mechanical zoom system with variable focal length in the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. However, the source indicates that Xiaomi is currently developing a “quad-lens solution” for the Xiaomi 18 Ultra, which should bring back a fourth camera, similar to earlier models before the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. While details about the new lens are not yet available, we anticipate more information will emerge in the upcoming months.

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  • Xiaomi 17 Series and Pad 8 Launching in India Next Week

    Xiaomi 17 Series and Pad 8 Launching in India Next Week

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi India will launch the Xiaomi 17 series and Pad 8 tablet on March 11 in India.
    2. The Xiaomi 17 features a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, quad 50 MP cameras, and a 6.3-inch OLED display.
    3. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra has a 6.9-inch OLED display, a larger battery, and multiple 50 MP cameras alongside a 200 MP telephoto lens.
    4. The Xiaomi Pad 8 includes a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, an 11.2-inch IPS display with a 144 Hz refresh rate, and a 9,200 mAh battery.
    5. Pricing details for the new devices in India have not been revealed yet.


    Following the global unveiling, Xiaomi India has now made it official that the Xiaomi 17 series and Pad 8 tablet are ready to launch next week in India. More specifically, these latest devices are set to debut on March 11 in India. Xiaomi India’s post on X indicated that they will introduce three devices, which are the Xiaomi 17, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, and the Xiaomi Pad 8.

    Specifications Overview

    In terms of specifications, both of the new smartphones from Xiaomi are expected to keep the same features as the global versions. The Xiaomi 17 is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, quad 50 MP cameras, a sleek 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, and a hefty 6,330 mAh battery that supports 100 W wired and 50 W wireless charging. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will come with a larger 6.9-inch OLED display at 120 Hz, a 6,000 mAh battery, a Snapdragon Elite Gen 5 processor, plus a 50 MP primary camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide camera, a 50 MP front camera, and a 200 MP telephoto lens.

    Xiaomi Pad 8 Features

    Additionally, the Xiaomi Pad 8 will be released featuring the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset, an 11.2-inch IPS display with a 144 Hz refresh rate, and a 9,200 mAh battery that supports 45 W wired charging. However, there’s currently no information available regarding the release of the Pad 8 Pro variant from Xiaomi. What we do know is that all three devices will be available for purchase in India through Xiaomi India’s official store and Amazon.

    We have already looked at the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra models available in China, and you can find our reviews by clicking on their respective names. As for the pricing, Xiaomi has not disclosed any price details for the Indian market yet. We will find out more once the devices officially launch in India.

    Xiaomi via X

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  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra Launches Innovative Global Camera Accessories

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra Launches Innovative Global Camera Accessories

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched the Xiaomi 17 Ultra at MWC 2026, marking its debut outside of China.
    2. Two new camera accessories, the Photography Kit Pro and Standard Photography Kit, were introduced for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.
    3. The Photography Kit Pro features a 2,000 mAh battery, detachable shutter button, and Fastshot mode, priced at €199.90 (~$235).
    4. The Standard Photography Kit is lighter, includes a customizable shutter button, and is priced at €99.90 (~$118), available in multiple colors.
    5. Discounts are offered for the accessories when purchased with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra before March 14.


    Xiaomi has unveiled the Xiaomi 17 Ultra today at MWC 2026 in Barcelona. For reference, the company has launched its new flagship device alongside the Xiaomi 17 and the Leica Leitzphone, marking its debut outside of China. Additionally, Xiaomi has rolled out two new camera accessories designed for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, aiming to compete with the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon.

    Photography Kit Pro

    In one aspect, the company is introducing the Photography Kit that was previously exclusive to China, now reaching global consumers. Available only in a black finish, the Photography Kit Pro features a built-in battery of 2,000 mAh, a detachable shutter button, and a non-slip PU grip that resembles the classic Leica cameras. Furthermore, this accessory enhances the shooting experience with a Fastshot mode, offering improved controls for capturing more accurate photographs.

    Standard Photography Kit

    Conversely, the standard Photography Kit boasts a sleeker design that Xiaomi claims is both lighter and more compact compared to its Pro version. Nevertheless, the standard kit includes a customizable two-stage shutter button, a distinct button for video recording, and a handy wrist strap. With an IP54 certification, this kit is also available in a variety of colors, unlike the Pro version which is more limited.

    The Photography Kit is priced at €99.90 (~$118) in the Eurozone, with options available in Black, Purple, and White. Meanwhile, the Photography Kit Pro costs €199.90 (~$235). Both accessories are being offered at significant discounts for customers who purchase them alongside the Xiaomi 17 Ultra before the deadline of March 14.

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  • Xiaomi Unveils Ultra-Premium Smartphone with Unique Design

    Xiaomi Unveils Ultra-Premium Smartphone with Unique Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Leica Edition phone is now called the ‘Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi’ outside China, featuring a new design without the original two-tone finish.
    2. The phone celebrates Leica’s 100th anniversary, showcasing a sleek black finish, a nickel-anodised aluminum body, and a knurled dial for zoom control.
    3. It shares specifications with the global Xiaomi 17 Ultra, including a 6.9-inch AMOLED display, a 6,000 mAh battery, and a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.
    4. The camera setup includes a 50 MP primary lens, a 50 MP ultra-wide-angle lens, a 50 MP front-facing camera, and a 200 MP telephoto lens.
    5. Priced at €1,999 (~$2,359), the Leica Leitzphone includes 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, which is €300 more than the standard Xiaomi 17 Ultra.


    Xiaomi’s Leica Edition phone is now launched worldwide, but it’s known by a different name and has some design changes. The Leica Edition is now called the ‘Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi’ in markets outside of China. Notably, Xiaomi has removed the two-tone design that characterized the original Leica Edition.

    Design Features

    The Leica Leitzphone is presented in a sleek black finish with silver edges. This phone marks the celebration of Leica’s 100th anniversary. It showcases a nickel-anodised aluminum body, and the logos have been turned 90 degrees from their position on the Leica Edition. Additionally, a knurled dial has been added to manage zoom levels, and the camera styles from the Leica Edition, like the Leica M3 and M9, are also included.

    Technical Specifications

    On the technical side, the Leica Leitzphone shares the same specifications as the global variant of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. This device stands up to competitors like the X300 Ultra and Galaxy S26 Ultra (currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon), featuring a 6.9-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 1-120 Hz, a powerful 6,000 mAh battery, and a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. The camera setup is impressive too, with 50 MP for the primary, 50 MP for ultra-wide-angle, 50 MP for the front-facing camera, and a 200 MP telephoto lens.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Leica Leitzphone comes in just one configuration. This setup is different not only from the Leica Edition available in China but also from the global models of the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra. The price for the Leica Leitzphone is set at €1,999 (~$2,359), which includes 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, representing a €300 increase compared to the standard Xiaomi 17 Ultra. For more information about the Leica Leitzphone, you can check out Xiaomi’s website.

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  • Flagship Camera Phone Set for Global Release at MWC Showcase

    Flagship Camera Phone Set for Global Release at MWC Showcase

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo will showcase the X300 Ultra at MWC in Barcelona, marking a key moment in the company’s global technology journey.
    2. The X300 Ultra will have a limited global launch, with availability more restricted than major brands like Samsung and Apple.
    3. The device is expected to feature a 200 MP primary camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide camera, a 200 MP periscope zoom lens, and a 50 MP front camera.
    4. It will be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and support 100 W wired charging, along with a 7,000 mAh battery.
    5. Vivo will also unveil other models in the X300 series and the new mid-range V70 series at the same event.


    Following the worldwide launch of the Galaxy S26 Ultra, more “Ultra” smartphones are on the horizon. Xiaomi’s 17 Ultra is set to make its global debut in just a few days, and it looks like it will soon be accompanied by another similar device—the Vivo X300 Ultra.

    Vivo’s Upcoming Showcase

    According to a press release from the company today, Vivo will present the Vivo X300 Ultra at MWC in Barcelona. The event will feature the first global preview of this flagship device, marking an important point in Vivo’s journey as a leader in global technology. The highlight of Vivo’s MWC 2026 presentation will be a sneak peek at the X300 Ultra, displaying Vivo’s new premium design and advancements in imaging technology.

    Limited Global Launch

    The press release indicates that the X300 Ultra will indeed launch globally, although its availability is likely to be much more restricted compared to devices from major brands like Samsung and Apple. Nonetheless, this will be a notable advancement, as the X300 Ultra is anticipated to be one of the top camera smartphones available. Alongside the X300 Ultra, Vivo is also set to unveil other models in the X300 series, as well as the new mid-range V70 series and last year’s foldable, the X Fold5.

    Key Features of the X300 Ultra

    Regarding the X300 Ultra, it is expected to include Sony’s 200 MP LYT901 as the primary camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide camera, a 200 MP periscope zoom lens, and a 50 MP front-facing camera. Additional leaked specifications suggest it will be powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, support 100 W wired charging, and house a 7,000 mAh battery.

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  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra Update Brings Exclusive Leica Camera Features

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra Update Brings Exclusive Leica Camera Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is launching the Xiaomi 17 Ultra globally, with a different name for the Leica Edition available on February 28.
    2. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will include features previously exclusive to the Leica Edition to cater to fans in China.
    3. The February 2026 update will provide optimizations and new features focused on improving the camera experience.
    4. Key camera upgrades include Leica Instant Mode 1x Tap Zoom, enhanced dual-view mode, and a regular watermark for the 200 MP setting.
    5. It is still uncertain if the new camera features will be available at the global launch to compete with the Galaxy S26 Ultra.


    Xiaomi is getting ready to launch the Xiaomi 17 Ultra on a global scale. Until recently, it was believed that this device would come out together with the Xiaomi 17. However, Xiaomi has now announced that the Leica Edition will be available worldwide on February 28, but it will go by a different name.

    Exciting Features for Fans

    The company hasn’t forgotten about its fans in China. In fact, Xiaomi has chosen to include a feature in the Xiaomi 17 Ultra that was once only found on the Leica Edition. According to the screenshot below, the update for February 2026 contains more than just a basic security patch. It also includes various optimizations and new features, with a strong focus on enhancing the camera experience.

    Camera Upgrades and Improvements

    On one side, HyperOS 3.0.15.0.WPACNXM brings Leica Instant Mode 1x Tap Zoom, a camera setting that was previously only for the Leica Edition. On the flip side, this new update also enhances Xiaomi’s dual-view mode, adds a regular watermark to the 200 MP setting, and improves dynamic range when capturing images with Dolby Vision turned on. Sadly, it’s still unclear if these features will be available with the global launch of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra to compete with the upcoming Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    Bao_Xiaoli via XiaomiTime

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  • Xiaomi 17 Ultra and 17 Launching in Multiple Colors Globally

    Xiaomi 17 Ultra and 17 Launching in Multiple Colors Globally

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be launched globally on February 28, alongside over six other devices.
    2. Both the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the smaller Xiaomi 17 model are expected to have smaller batteries than their Chinese versions.
    3. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be available in two colors for the global market, while the Xiaomi 17 will have at least three color options.
    4. The white model of the Xiaomi 17 will not be released globally; a green version will take its place.
    5. Pricing for the Xiaomi 17 is expected to be around €999 ($1,175), and the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be priced at €1,499 ($1,765).


    Xiaomi is just a few days away from the global launch of its new flagship, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. The company has announced that this device will be unveiled on February 28. Interestingly, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is one of more than six devices set to appear at this same event, which also includes updates to last year’s Pad 7 and Pad 7 Pro, currently priced at $474.50 on Amazon.

    Details About the Xiaomi 17 Ultra

    Almost all information about the Xiaomi 17 Ultra has been leaked from its earlier releases in China. This also applies to the smaller Xiaomi 17 model. However, both models are expected to come with smaller batteries compared to their Chinese counterparts. Xiaomi is now starting to reveal the colors that will be available for these devices worldwide.

    Color Options and Pricing

    In its home market, Xiaomi offers the Xiaomi 17 Ultra in four different colors. From the recent tweets, it seems that only two of those will make it to the global market. On the other hand, the Xiaomi 17 has been shown in at least three color variations. The white model that was available in China will not be released globally, but Xiaomi has hinted that a green version will take its place. For pricing, the Xiaomi 17 is expected to be available in the Eurozone for €999 (around $1,175), while the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is set to be priced at €1,499 (approximately $1,765).

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