Xiaomi has unveiled a special Leica edition of its upcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra smartphone, extending its collaboration with the German camera brand as it prepares to introduce its next flagship model aimed at mobile photography enthusiasts.
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and feature a Leica-enhanced camera system. Ahead of the official launch, the company has previewed a special edition variant that incorporates a physical rotary ring around the rear camera module, a design element inspired by traditional cameras.
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The special edition introduces what Xiaomi refers to as the Master Zoom Ring, a physical control that encircles the entire camera housing. A recently released video shows the ring being rotated, suggesting a more tactile shooting experience compared with touch-based zoom controls.
Although Xiaomi has not formally confirmed the function of the ring, information shared by well-known leaker Digital Chat Station indicates that the component is designed to provide actual zoom control rather than serving as a purely decorative feature. The special edition also includes a three-dimensional Leica engraving near the camera module to further distinguish it from the standard version.
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Xiaomi has previously highlighted the device’s 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera, sharing sample images that point to improved detail in portrait and long-range shots. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is scheduled to be officially launched in China on Dec. 25, 2025, with additional details expected ahead of the announcement.