The highly anticipated global launch of the Xiaomi 17 series is scheduled for February 28, 2024, but it comes with a notable twist. While the standard Xiaomi 17 and the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be available internationally, the more advanced Xiaomi 17 Pro and Pro Max models will not be included in this rollout. This decision leaves enthusiasts with only two options outside China.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition: A Name Change Ahead?
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to debut in global markets, but it may do so under a different name. Recent certification from Thailand’s NBTC revealed the model number 25128PNA1G, which is associated with the Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi. This suggests a potential rebranding for international consumers, though Xiaomi has not confirmed this change.
Historically, the Leitzphone series has been exclusive to Japan, comprising three models that Leica produced in partnership with Xiaomi. It appears that Leica is shifting its strategy, possibly replacing this line with a new version of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra.
The name “Leica” is derived from the founder Ernst Leitz, combining his last name with the word “camera,” symbolizing the brand’s long-standing heritage in photography.
Powerful Specifications and Unique Features
Benchmark results from Geekbench AI have surfaced, showcasing the performance of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. The prototype achieved a Single-Precision score of 1,973, a Half-Precision score of 3,322, and a Quantized score of 4,754. These figures indicate impressive on-device AI capabilities and confirm that the flagship device will be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.
Additionally, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will come equipped with 16GB of RAM and run on Android 16 OS right out of the box, enhancing its appeal to tech-savvy consumers.
Distinct from the standard version, the Leica Edition of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra focuses heavily on photography. It features advanced camera technology, including special Leica color science and filters, along with a mechanical zoom ring that mimics DSLR controls. This premium variant is expected to be priced higher than the standard model in China, and similar pricing strategies may apply globally.
As the launch date approaches, consumers eagerly await further details from Xiaomi regarding the global availability and potential rebranding of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leica Edition. This innovative smartphone is set to capture the attention of photography enthusiasts and tech aficionados alike, promising to deliver high-quality performance and unique features.
