In conjunction with the worldwide debut of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, Xiaomi revealed an enhanced partnership with Leica. Leica's CEO, Matthias Harsch, presented the new Leitzphone on stage, marking a more intensive joint effort compared to the 17 Ultra by Leica, which is a separate model. If this seems puzzling, it's understandable.
From a design perspective, the device features a uniform single-color body that evokes a classic Leica aesthetic, at least to an amateur photographer. Those familiar with the Leitzphone name might recall it as a line of smartphones produced by Sharp, released exclusively in Japan starting in 2021, all equipped with a 1-inch image sensor—Xiaomi's version shares this feature. Additionally, it includes a physical mechanical ring surrounding the camera module for adjusting parameters such as zoom, exposure, and shutter speed.
Leica has crafted the camera software interface for optimal ease of use. The app includes an Essential mode that removes unnecessary options and text overlays, allowing users to focus purely on their subject. Options let users toggle between a black-and-white capture setting and Leica's signature vibrant, high-contrast look. These are the primary modes available.
During a short demo at Xiaomi's MWC presentation, no significant alterations to the overall user interface stood out beyond the camera features. For those interested in its performance or imaging capabilities, our review of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra offers detailed impressions and example images—the optics deliver solid results.
The three variants—standard Xiaomi 17 Ultra, the Leica-branded edition, and the Leitzphone—share the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and a 6.9-inch screen with 120Hz refresh rate, capable of peaking at 3,500 nits brightness. Though the emphasis is on photography, it qualifies as a top-tier smartphone across the board, supported by a 6,000mAh battery ideal for prolonged shooting sessions.
Apart from subtle Leica-themed wallpapers and design elements, the Leitzphone closely resembles the 17 Ultra by Leica, differing mainly in branding emphasis. Whether the heightened Leica association will draw in photography enthusiasts to choose it as their next device remains to be seen, especially for its strong low-light performance. Following several years of joint projects and branding touches, this represents Xiaomi's initial fully Leica-oriented smartphone, distributed through both firms. It carries a price tag of €1,999 (about $2,362), with no confirmation on availability in the United States. Greetings from MWC.