In 2026, Xiaomi has shaken up the flagship smartphone market with the release of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica. This new addition to the ultra-high-end smartphone segment isn’t just about spec sheets—it’s a reminder that smartphones should be fun and innovative. As Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra prepares for its release, Xiaomi’s latest device stands out as a refreshing alternative, bringing a quirky and distinctive approach to design and functionality.
Quirky Design with a Purpose
The standout feature of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is its Leica Camera Ring, a unique and customizable addition to the camera island. This ring allows users to map various camera-related functions, such as zoom control or camera mode selection, directly to the ring itself. This thoughtful feature makes the most out of the raised camera island, which has become a signature element of flagship phones, particularly those from Chinese manufacturers. While some early reports suggest that the ring could be a bit loose or unintuitive, it promises to be a fun, practical addition once you get used to it.
The overall design of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra embraces the flat design trend seen in many flagship phones, but with a twist. The device features a knurled side frame on the right, enhancing grip while maintaining the sleek look of the flat aesthetic. This clever, tactile design decision addresses one common problem with many modern phones—how slippery they can be. The knurled frame is a small touch that helps Xiaomi’s phone stand out, offering both style and substance.
A Touch of Nostalgia with Retro Volume Buttons
One of the most charming design aspects of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is its retro-inspired volume buttons, which are reminiscent of the iconic iPhone 4. The round, etched buttons are a delightful callback to one of the most beloved smartphones in history, and they perfectly complement the overall aesthetic of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. While not a signature feature for Xiaomi, these buttons evoke a sense of nostalgia, adding to the playful spirit of the device.
Leica-Powered Camera Performance
At its core, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is a camera-centric device, but it’s the software and image-processing features powered by Leica that truly set it apart. The partnership between Xiaomi and Leica has always been about pushing the boundaries of smartphone photography, and the 17 Ultra continues this tradition with two new shooting modes: Leica Essential and Monopan 50. These aren’t just filters—they are dedicated ISP (Image Signal Processing) workflows designed to recreate the iconic look of Leica’s legendary M9 and M3 cameras.
The addition of these modes elevates the Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s photographic capabilities, offering users a unique creative toolset not typically seen in other flagship devices. This partnership brings a distinct personality to the phone, making it a standout in an increasingly homogeneous smartphone market.
A Fun Rival to the Galaxy S26 Ultra
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra may not surpass the Galaxy S26 Ultra in every area, but it’s already winning in terms of personality and innovation. While Samsung’s Galaxy S26 Ultra may play it safe with its usual iterative upgrades, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra goes bold with its design choices and camera features, injecting fun into the flagship category. It’s a device that pushes the envelope in ways that other phones, particularly those from established brands, are hesitant to do.
In the battle of flagship smartphones, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra has made a compelling case for personality over just raw specs, proving that phones can be both functional and exciting. Whether it’s the Leica Camera Ring, the knurled side frame, or the retro-inspired buttons, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is a breath of fresh air in a space dominated by predictable designs.
