The Xiaomi 17 Ultra, priced at £1,299, presents an appealing alternative to the Leica-branded Leitzphone, which retails for £1,699. Although it shares the same impressive capabilities, including a potent Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and a 6,000-mAh battery, this model simplifies some features to cater to a broader audience.
Both phones boast identical camera hardware, featuring a large LOFIC image sensor and a telephoto zoom with moving lens elements for continuous optical zoom. However, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra omits the physical control wheel found on the Leitzphone, which some users may find disappointing. Additionally, it lacks Leica color profiles typically associated with the brand's standalone cameras.
Physically distinct from its Leica counterpart, the 17 Ultra showcases a unique deep green finish, diverging from the minimalist design ethos of the Leitzphone. Despite the absence of Leica's branding and custom interface, the phone remains a powerful photography tool for users who prioritize performance over specific brand elements.