Xiaomi has launched the 17 Ultra smartphone in partnership with Leica, aiming to challenge Apple’s iPhone Pro Max in mobile imaging through advanced optical technology. The device starts at US$998, nearly 8 per cent higher than the previous generation due to soaring memory chip costs.
The launch of Xiaomi’s 17 Ultra marks a deepened partnership with Leica in mobile photography. Xiaomi president Lu Weibing said at the unveiling: “We work together to build future-proof optical technology … and completely reshape the mobile photography experience.”
Siegmund Dukek, managing director of Leica Camera Greater China, added: “By bringing our optical expertise into Xiaomi smartphones, we’re making professional photography more accessible.”
The phone’s starting price is US$998, nearly 8 per cent higher than the previous generation owing to soaring memory chip costs. Keywords include Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica, memory chips, artificial intelligence, IDC, Counterpoint Research, smartphone, Apple, China, Counterpoint, Hong Kong, iPhone, Leica, Lu Weibing, Samsung, Xiaomi, and Xiaomi 17 Pro series.
The event was published on December 25, 2025, highlighting competition in China’s high-end smartphone imaging market.