When Xiaomi announced its partnership with Leica , skeptics wondered if a phone could truly blend professional-grade photography with flagship performance. Enter the Xiaomi 15 Ultra —a device that doesn’t just borrow Leica’s name but delivers a camera experience that feels like holding a miniaturized version of a DSLR in your hand.
Super Enough To Be Just A Camera
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra camera isn’t just another smartphone lens—it’s a beast. With a 50MP primary sensor co-developed with Leica, a 23mm ultra-wide lens, and a periscope zoom that hits 120x digital zoom , this phone dares to replace your standalone camera. The Leica Summicron lens ensures every shot is crisp, while the vivid color science and monochrome modes cater to both casual snappers and enthusiasts.
Quote: “The Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s camera doesn’t just take photos—it crafts art.”
Specced Like A Flagship For Photography
Beyond the camera, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra packs hardware that keeps up with its ambition:
- Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset for lag-free performance
- 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 2K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate
- 5,500mAh battery with 90W wired and 80W wireless charging
- IP68 rating for dust and water resistance
This isn’t just a camera with a phone attached—it’s a full-fledged flagship built for creators who demand speed, clarity, and endurance.
Looks Like A Leica
The design is a love letter to classic cameras. The leather-textured back panel , metal frame, and rectangular camera bump evoke the feel of a Leica M-series rangefinder. At just 9.3mm thick and 228g, it’s compact enough to carry daily without compromising on premium aesthetics.
Quick Pointers: Xiaomi 15 Ultra Review
| Feature | Spec/Detail |
|---|---|
| Camera | 50MP main + 50MP ultra-wide + 50MP telephoto |
| Display | 6.7” AMOLED 2K, 120Hz |
| Battery | 5,500mAh + 90W wired fast charging |
| OS | MIUI 15 (based on Android 14) |
| Price | Starts at $999 |
Why It Stands Out
- Leica Collaboration : True to the partnership, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra offers manual controls like shutter speed, ISO, and RAW format—features usually reserved for dedicated cameras.
- Flagship Performance : The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 ensures seamless multitasking, gaming, and editing on the go.
- Portable Design : Unlike bulkier competitors, this phone balances pro-grade hardware with a sleek form factor.
Drawbacks to Note
- Weight : At 228g, it’s heavier than lightweight flagships like the iPhone 15 Pro.
- Software Updates : MIUI has improved, but stock Android fans might prefer Pixel or Samsung’s One UI.
Final Verdict
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra isn’t just another Android phone—it’s a hybrid of Leica optics and Xiaomi’s engineering prowess. If you prioritize photography without sacrificing performance, this device is a game-changer. For creators seeking a smartphone that doubles as a travel camera, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra earns its place among the best flagship smartphones of 2024 .