Xiaomi’s Latest Phone Looks Like a Classic Leica Camera

The new Xiaomi 15 Ultra smartphone was not only built with input from Leica, but actually comes with a Leica-inspired design.

Mar 27, 2025 - 16:00

Xiaomi’s Latest Phone Looks Like a Classic Leica Camera

While companies like Nothing are pushing the boundaries of phone design with transparent aesthetics and eye-catching LEDs, Chinese tech giant Xiaomi is taking a different, more nostalgic approach. Enter the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, the company’s latest flagship smartphone that’s turning heads with a design inspired by classic Leica cameras. This unique aesthetic choice goes beyond skin deep, highlighting Xiaomi’s continued collaboration with Leica to bring professional-grade photography to mobile devices.

It comes in a sleek Silver Chrome color option, as well as Black and White, that looks similar to the iconic Leica M-series cameras. The Leica influence on the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is more than just cosmetic – the camera system itself is what truly stands out. Xiaomi’s ongoing partnership with Leica has led to a sophisticated imaging system that aims to rival even the most advanced smartphones on the market.

Xiaomi isn’t just relying on looks to sell the 15 Ultra. The real magic happens beneath the surface. The phone packs a 200-megapixel Samsung ISOCELL sensor – a sensor typically used for main cameras – but placed behind telephoto glass. This results in beautifully detailed shots, particularly in telephoto, macro, and portrait modes. The sensor’s size and resolution allow for superior light capture, producing vibrant, well-exposed shots even in challenging conditions.

The phone packs a versatile quad-camera system, including a main 50-megapixel wide angle camera with an ultra-large aperture for low light; an ultra-wide 50-megapixel lens for expansive landscape shots; a periscope-style telephoto lens that leverages the 200-megapixel sensor for zoomed-in shots; and a macro mode for close-up photography.

Beyond hardware, Xiaomi has equipped the 15 Ultra with software enhancements that elevate the photography experience. Users can expect Leica Authentic and Leica Vibrant modes, offering two distinct processing styles to match different creative preferences; AI scene recognition that automatically adjusts settings based on the environment; and Pro mode for manual control, giving photographers the ability to fine-tune ISO, shutter speed, white balance, and more.

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra doesn’t just feel like a professional camera – it’s built like one too. The device features a ceramic or vegan leather back, giving it a premium feel and improved grip. The camera bump is pronounced but purposeful, housing the advanced camera system while adding to the Leica-inspired aesthetic.

Also available is an optional Photography Kit, which adds a camera-like grip that plugs into the USB-C port, and features a two-stage shutter button, making the phone feel much more like a traditional camera.

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is available in many global markets right now, starting at €1,499. Despite its global availability, sadly, it won’t be available in the United States.

For more information on the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, visit mi.com.

Photography courtesy of Xiaomi.