Photography enthusiasts rejoice! Today, we present a remarkable device: the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica. This special edition combines the company's flagship features with unique enhancements specifically designed for photography lovers. Let's dive in!
Starting with the unboxing, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica includes several photography-centric accessories, reflecting its premium price of CNY 7,999 or CNY 8,999 (depending on whether you choose the 512GB or 1TB option), compared to the range of CNY 6,999-8,499 for the standard model.
You will find the phone, a 100W charger, a braided USB-A to USB-C cable, a stylish case, a metal Leica lens cap designed for the case, a complimentary red wrist strap, and a leather cleaning cloth.
Unboxing the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica
What sets the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica apart? Its distinctive dual-tone finish takes inspiration from Leica cameras, featuring a leatherette bottom half and a top section that resembles the top plate of Leica M cameras, complete with a Red Dot logo.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Leica influence extends further. The phone comes preloaded with two exclusive Leica themes, unavailable on the standard Xiaomi 17 Ultra.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica
Additionally, unlike the regular model, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica features a knurled frame for a more secure grip and proudly displays an inscription reading 'Leica Camera Germany' on the left edge.
Signs of a Special Edition
Moreover, another notable feature is the Control Ring—a mechanically rotating ring surrounding the camera island that enables zooming between different focal lengths and cameras.
The camera system software also boasts advanced color tuning. Xiaomi has included several specialized shooting modes aimed at reproducing iconic Leica aesthetics. One mode emulates the Leica M9, a beloved full-frame digital rangefinder known for its uniquely vibrant colors, produced by a Kodak-developed CCD sensor.
Another mode, the Leica M3 + Monopan 50, generates a striking black-and-white effect, characterized by intense contrasts and deep shadows.
Underneath the Leica enhancements, the core of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra remains a powerhouse Android flagship, packed with high-end specifications. This year, it introduces a variable zoom camera featuring a 75mm to 100mm f/2.39 - f/2.96 aperture, replacing the two separate zoom cameras from prior models: a 70mm f/1.8 and a 100mm f/2.6. The standout 200MP 1/1.4-inch sensor has gained acclaim for leading the zoom camera segment over the past two years.
We will soon see if the exceptional quality from the Xiaomi 15 Ultra's zoom images carries over to this model.
Zooming Between 75mm and 100mm
Finally, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica measures slightly larger than the Xiaomi 15 Ultra with its expanded 6.9-inch display. However, Xiaomi has reduced the bezels and trimmed 1mm off the thickness to ensure a comfortable feel, meaning you likely won't notice any significant difference when holding both models side by side.
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica in Hand
With so much to explore regarding the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica, we appreciate your patience as we delve deeper into this impressive device!
