The Xiaomi 17 Ultra has some impressive add-ons that make snapping photos really fun

In the competitive landscape of smartphone photography, the spotlight often shines on brands like Apple and Samsung in the U.S. However, in Asia and parts of Europe, brands such as Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo are making significant strides. The recently launched Xiaomi 17 Ultra is a prime example, boasting a striking camera array and an impressive collaboration with Leica, the renowned German camera manufacturer, to enhance its photography capabilities. At the heart of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is a robust camera system that offers a variety of options, from different focal lengths to an array of filters and settings that allow users to customize their shots. Notably, Xiaomi has introduced external accessories that attach to the camera, including a USB-based tool that simplifies photo and video capture with hardware buttons. While these additions may not drastically expand the camera's functionality, they certainly enhance user experience, especially for one-handed operation. Beyond its photography prowess, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is equipped with top-tier specifications. It features Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, ensuring high performance throughout the year. The device sports a stunning 6.9-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1200 x 2608 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant visuals at a peak brightness of 3,500 nits, which is particularly useful in bright environments. The phone's impressive 6,000 mAh battery leverages innovative Silicon/Carbon-Ion technology, providing extended usage time—potentially lasting several days with moderate use. Remarkably, despite its large battery, the device remains lighter than the iPhone Pro Max. Charging is efficient, supporting 90W wired charging with various compatible chargers, including Xiaomi's own 50W option. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the main camera's 50-megapixel sensor with an f/1.67 aperture, designed to capture more light and produce sharp, colorful images. The unique 200-megapixel telephoto lens offers continuous optical zoom from 3.2x to 4.3x, providing versatility for capturing subjects at various distances. The 50-megapixel ultrawide lens excels in macro photography, although it may lose some detail compared to the other lenses in specific scenarios. For selfies, the device includes a 50-megapixel front camera, best enjoyed with beauty filters turned off. The camera interface offers a range of Leica-inspired color profiles and a variety of creative filters, giving users ample options to enhance their photos. Xiaomi's new accessories, The 17 Ultra Photography Kit and The 17 Ultra Photography Kit Pro, further enhance the photography experience. The base model attaches directly to the phone and connects via Bluetooth, featuring a two-stage shutter button and a dedicated video button. The Pro version adds a camera grip-like controller that connects through USB-C, complete with a customizable dial for exposure, filters, ISO, shutter speed, and more. With its user-friendly design and camera-centric features, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is set to compete with upcoming models like the Vivo X300 Ultra and the Oppo Find X9. Priced starting at €1,499 in Europe, with the Photography Kit retailing at €99.99 and the Pro version at €199.99, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is poised to capture the attention of photography lovers around the globe.