Xiaomi 17 Ultra: “Nezha” Camera Leaks & Triple-Lens Setup
Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leaks: “Nezha” Code Name and Revolutionary Camera Setup
Even while the Xiaomi 15 series is still making waves, whispers about the next-generation Xiaomi 17 Ultra are already circulating. This phone, codenamed “Nezha,” promises to be a major leap forward, especially in the camera department. While we are all enjoying our Gadget Review of the latest Xiaomi offerings, let’s dive into what we know about this exciting upcoming device and its potential to redefine mobile photography with its revolutionary camera setup.
Camera Shake-Up: From Quad to Triple?
The biggest surprise from the leaked information is the potential reduction in rear cameras. Instead of the quad-camera setup we’ve seen on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and 15 Ultra, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra might sport a triple-camera system. This departure from the “more is better” approach has ignited discussions within the Xiaomi community. Are they streamlining for efficiency, or does the new “异形传感器” (odd-shaped sensor) hold the key to even better image quality?
High-End Hardware, Fewer Lenses?
While the number of lenses might be decreasing, the quality of the hardware is definitely not! Leaks suggest Xiaomi is doubling down on top-tier sensors:
- Main Camera: 50MP OVX10500U (1-inch super large sensor, supplied by Semco)
- Periscope Telephoto: 200MP Samsung S5KHPE (currently the highest resolution periscope sensor on any phone)
- Ultrawide: 50MP OV50M or Samsung S5KJN5 (both options being tested)
- Front Camera: 50MP OV50M
Xiaomi
That 200MP periscope telephoto lens is a serious game-changer. Rumored to be a custom Samsung ISOCELL HP variant exclusive to Xiaomi, it boasts incredible light sensitivity and detail, potentially making the Xiaomi 17 Ultra the undisputed champion of zoom photography, and a leader in Mobile Technology.
The “Nezha” Factor: Rebirth Through Innovation
The codename “Nezha,” referencing the Chinese mythological figure who sacrifices himself to be reborn, hints at a radical transformation of the imaging system. Xiaomi might be aiming to “cut away” unnecessary lenses and focus on optimizing individual sensor performance. This could lead to cleaner designs and superior image quality with fewer components. Perhaps this ties into Xiaomi’s current Xiaomi Strategic Shift: Why “Air” Phones are Failing.
Confirmed and Rumored Specs
Beyond the camera, here’s what else we know (or think we know) about the Xiaomi 17 Ultra:
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (or “Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Supreme Edition”)
- Operating System: HyperOS 3.0 based on Android 16 (a first for Xiaomi!)
- Satellite Communication: Expected for international versions (and hopefully domestic ones too)
- Camera Island Design: Continuing the large circular “Oreo” design of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, but with a more compact arrangement.
The technology behind Xiaomi 17 Ultra
The Mystery Sensor
The biggest question mark remains that “odd-shaped sensor” replacing the fourth lens. What could it be? Some theories include:
- A multispectral sensor for improved color accuracy.
- An upgraded variable aperture system (version 2.0).
- A new ToF (Time-of-Flight) sensor paired with laser autofocus for even faster and more accurate focusing.
We’ll likely have to wait until Xiaomi’s annual imaging event in May 2026 to find out the truth.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra: Setting the Stage for 2026
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is already generating significant buzz, even this far out. The combination of a 200MP periscope lens, a massive 1-inch main sensor, and that mysterious sensor is setting the stage for a flagship battle in 2026. By innovating in camera hardware and taking a bold approach to lens configuration, Xiaomi is clearly not holding back. Keep up to date with the launch date and all related Xiaomi news here at xiaomiforall.com! Is the Xiaomi 15 Pro vs Huawei Mate 80 Pro: Best Android Alternative? still going to be relevant then?
