Xiaomi has unveiled the 17 Ultra, a high-end smartphone that shares core components with its Leica-branded Leitzphone but offers a more streamlined experience – and a lower price tag. While the Leitzphone leans heavily into its Leica partnership with physical controls and signature color profiles, the 17 Ultra delivers the same underlying power without the extra branding.
Core Specs and Performance
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra packs a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, a large 6.9-inch display, and a robust 6,000-mAh battery. Crucially, it retains the advanced camera system found in the Leitzphone, including a large LOFIC image sensor and a telephoto lens with moving elements for continuous optical zoom. This results in exceptional image quality, making it a strong contender in the high-end mobile photography space.
What Sets It Apart: The Leica Difference
The key distinction between the two models lies in the branding and additional Leica-specific features. The 17 Ultra lacks the physical control wheel found on the Leitzphone, though many users may find this omission minor. More noticeably, it omits the Leica color profiles that mimic the aesthetic of Leica’s standalone cameras. These profiles, such as “Leica Chrome,” are popular among photography enthusiasts, but their absence doesn’t compromise the phone’s core capabilities.
The 17 Ultra also forgoes the Leica-branded interface elements – including the red dot logo and “Leica Camera Germany” etching – opting for a sleek, sparkly deep green finish instead. This design choice gives it a more mainstream appeal.
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is priced at £1,299 in the UK (approximately $1,750), significantly less than the Leitzphone’s £1,699 ($2,290) price tag. Neither model is officially available in the US. The price difference reflects the removal of the Leica-specific branding and features, making it an accessible option for those prioritizing performance over exclusivity.
Ultimately, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is a compelling choice for users who want a top-tier camera phone without paying the Leica premium. The core hardware remains exceptional, ensuring high-quality photography and overall performance.
