The Xiaomi 17 Ultra and its special Leica edition resemble cameras more than ever. Released internationally with a Leica Leitzphone version, this move strengthens the Xiaomi-Leica partnership. The Leitzphone is essentially a 17 Ultra with Leica branding and design tweaks, including Leica’s red dot logo on the hardware, which Xiaomi hadn’t been allowed to use until now. After using the Leitzphone for two weeks, it stands out as a 2026 favorite, though the standard 17 Ultra offers good value.
The 17 Ultra and its Leica Edition were initially launched in China. The international version and Leitzphone were unveiled in Barcelona, priced higher due to design and branding differences, such as the glossy black finish and Leica logo. Both versions run Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 on Android 16, with Leica-specific customizations in the Leitzphone. The camera features are expanded with Leica filters and a rotatable camera ring, adding a hands-on design element.
The 17 Ultra’s flagship feature is its telephoto lens with continuous optical zoom, simplifying two telephoto cameras into one. The camera excels with its large sensor, predicting phenomenal photography experiences. Other specs include a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, substantial RAM, storage options, a 6.9-inch OLED display, and strong battery life.
Despite its strengths, the Leitzphone’s higher cost may not justify its exclusive features compared to the standard 17 Ultra, which is an excellent phone independently. Photography by Dominic Preston / The Verge.
Agree to Continue: Xiaomi 17 Ultra requires agreement to mandatory terms from Google and Xiaomi. Additional optional agreements cover data sharing and app usage, increasing complexity for users.