/PRZWT/On March 2nd, 2026, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica from the Chinese mainland is the first product resulting from the upgraded "strategic co-creation model" between Leica and Xiaomi, symbolizing the highest technological and artistic achievements of both parties. Today, we will introduce a new color for this series: Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica Black Silver.
This version was meticulously crafted by the original Leica designers. It features modern minimalism while incorporating Leica's classic elements. The elements on the back have been arranged vertically, and the simplified lines better align with Leica's pursuit of the "form follows function" design principle.
Leica Design: The Harmonization of Classic and Modern
Under the "Strategic Co-creation Model", our collaboration has transcended the boundaries of traditional joint R&D and entered a brand new stage where we jointly conceive and share responsibilities from the very beginning of product definition. The birth of Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica is a vivid illustration of this model. The classic design language, optical philosophy and imaging aesthetics of Leica have been deeply integrated into every detail of the product. The first Leica red logo plaque engraved on the body and the engraved "LEICA CAMERA" text on the middle frame all demonstrate the mutual respect and innovative inheritance of both parties for the classic imaging culture.
Imaging expertise, joint refinement
In the new stage of deepened cooperation, both parties shared the mission and defined the core imaging features of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica - from the lens structure, sensor performance, to the tone presentation and user interaction, they participated in the entire process in depth. Leica's core contribution focused on the optical system and the image function design that showcased the brand's core philosophy: focusing on the essence, respecting light, and being true to the subject.
Master Zoom Ring: Convenient Control Innovation
One of the core highlights of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica is the mechanical shooting ring jointly developed and created by both parties through in-depth collaboration. It is made of stainless steel and incorporates an optical sensor, enabling precise tactile control for focal length adjustment and camera startup. The operation is convenient, balancing accuracy and smoothness, providing a smooth user experience.
Optical quality, striving for excellence
The optical configuration of this smartphone has redefined the possibilities of mobile imaging. The main camera uses a 1-inch sensor, combined with LOFIC ultra-high dynamic technology and high-transparency glass lenses, to achieve a wider dynamic range and more delicate tones.
The 200 million pixel telephoto lens group, with its customized zoom lens structure, can achieve continuous optical zoom from 75mm to 100mm. To ensure the detail presentation and color consistency across the entire focal range, Leica and Xiaomi adopted a multi-element APO design. This design is particularly advantageous when shooting high-contrast telephoto scenes such as cityscapes, buildings, or distant portraits, as it effectively suppresses color aberrations.
Leica UI/UX Design
The Leica UI/UX experience featured on the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica extends the Leica imaging aesthetics into the digital realm. From customized Leica fonts, widgets and wallpapers, to intuitive and easy-to-understand camera menus, and to the two exclusive photography styles - Leica Classic and Leica Vivid, the entire interface is centered around the core concepts of "clarity, simplicity, and creation". Every detail showcases the Leica design philosophy, allowing users to have a continuous and focused immersive experience from shooting to finalizing the image.
Leica Style and Bokeh: Visual Expression Tools
The 13 exclusive Leica looks specially developed for this product reinterpret the tonal gradations and color styles of Leica in a digital environment. Whether it is subtle and natural or highly contrasting, each style enables photographers to obtain their own visual expression language when capturing moments.
Five vignetting simulation functions reproduce the imaging styles of several selected Leica lenses, presenting delicate depth-of-field separation effects and rich aesthetic variations. These tools are not traditional filters but visual creation options, designed to support creative decisions rather than replace the creative process itself.
Leica Instant: The Calculated Interpretation of Leica Aesthetics
The new core mode elevates the image computing process to a higher level. Based on the AI model trained using hundreds of thousands of Leica images, this mode digitally interprets the essence of many classic combinations of images, such as the Leica M3 and Monopan 50 black-and-white film mode, and the daylight white balance Leica M9 mode. The RAW-to-RGB native processing technology can present natural transition layers and film texture, further enriching the creative space.
Content verification certificate: Built-in authenticity verification mechanism
To facilitate the transparency of image creation, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica incorporates the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) technology. Every image captured can be immediately attached with verifiable metadata, ensuring both the transparency of image creation and the authenticity of visual content.
"This project demonstrates the mutual belief of both parties - meaningful photography cannot be achieved without the right photography tools," said Mr. Matthias Harsch, the CEO of Leica Camera AG. "The Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica has opened up a new dimension for creative expression. For Leica, China is a crucial and dynamic market. This collaboration showcases our commitment - to bring Leica imaging to the forefront of the most rapidly developing photography culture."
The Leica black and silver version of Xiaomi 17 Ultra is about to be officially launched at Leica stores. It continues the classic black and silver color scheme aesthetics and presents a more distinctive mobile imaging flagship style. Please keep following the official Leica channels in China for more information. More release details are awaiting announcement.
Leica Camera - Partner in Photography
Leica Camera AG is an international company that produces high-end cameras, lenses, and sports optics products. It has a history of over 150 years. As part of its growth strategy, the company has expanded its business into mobile imaging (smartphones), high-quality eyeglass lenses, and watch manufacturing, and has established a position in the home theater sector with its own projection equipment.
The headquarters of Leica Camera AG is located in Wiesloch, Germany, and it also has another production base in the new town of Famalicão, Portugal. The company has its own global sales network, including over 120 Leica specialty stores.
The Leica brand embodies outstanding quality, German craftsmanship, industrial design and innovative technology. As an important part of the brand culture, Leica is dedicated to promoting the development of imaging culture. Currently, it has approximately 30 Leica galleries worldwide, and also has a Leica Academy and international photography awards, such as the Leica Hall of Fame Award and the Leica Oskar Barnack Award (LOBA).
