Xiaomi has recently been at the forefront of mobile photography advancements, notably being one of the pioneering smartphone manufacturers to introduce a 1-inch camera sensor. Collaborating with Leica has resulted in a significant enhancement of camera hardware and software in Xiaomi phones. The latest development from this partnership is the establishment of an optical institute.
Xiaomi & Leica’s Optical Institute in China
The new optical institute, a joint venture between Xiaomi and Leica, aims to design ultra-precision optical lenses in a compact form factor. The primary goals include achieving optimal performance in computational photography, adhering to the highest optical standards for lenses, and exploring cutting-edge optoelectronic technology applications. This initiative is highlighted on Xiaomi’s official website.
Key personnel from both Xiaomi and Leica are actively involved in setting up this institute. Peter Karbe, renowned for his contributions to Leica’s premium Noctilux and APO lenses, will bring his expertise as an optical specialist. Zeng Xuezong, Senior Vice President of Xiaomi Group and President of the Xiaomi Mobile Phone Department, will assume the role of Director. Additionally, Yi Yan from Xiaomi Group’s Software Technical Team and Wang Xuanran, General Manager of Xiaomi Camera Department, will serve as Deputy Directors.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
The collaborative effort between Xiaomi and Leica has not yet materialized into a physical institute. Presently, plans are in place to establish three main laboratories in Beijing, focusing on Camera Hardware, Imaging, and Objective and Subjective Image Quality Evaluation.
Xiaomi appears to be pushing the boundaries in mobile photography further. While the Xiaomi 13 Ultra already boasts a robust camera setup, expectations are high for the upcoming Xiaomi 14 Ultra, anticipated to offer even more advanced hardware capabilities. For a glimpse of what to expect, recent images captured using the Xiaomi 14 Ultra were shared in a previous article.
