Xiaomi 17 Ultra Leak Reveals DSLR-Inspired Design & Powerful Camera Upgrade

Published: October 14, 2025  |  Category: Android, Smartphone Leaks, Camera Technology

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The highly anticipated Xiaomi 17 Ultra has once again become the center of attention in the tech world. According to new leaks, this upcoming flagship may come with a bold, DSLR-style camera design that could completely redefine smartphone photography. While Xiaomi has yet to officially announce the device, trusted insiders have already begun sharing exciting details about its design, features, and performance.

A Radical Design Shift Inspired by Professional Cameras

Reliable tipster Digital Chat Station revealed that one version of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will look “almost identical to a dedicated camera.” This isn’t the first time Xiaomi has experimented with this approach. Back in 2025 at MWC, the company showcased a modular camera system concept for its Xiaomi 15 series. That design allowed the phone to mimic the look and handling of a professional camera.

While the Xiaomi 17 Ultra itself isn’t expected to use a modular design, the idea may have inspired this new version. The upcoming phone may feature a larger, more pronounced camera housing, creating the feel of a compact DSLR camera in a smartphone body.

Powerful Camera Hardware With Periscope Lens

Another exciting detail from the leak is the inclusion of a large periscope sensor on the back of the engineering prototype. This upgrade could deliver exceptional optical zoom capabilities and improved low-light performance — two key features smartphone photography enthusiasts have been demanding.

The camera island design reportedly has a fresh layout compared to its predecessors. The lenses are expected to be more prominent, resembling the 12S Ultra concept which allowed users to mount a full-size Leica lens. Xiaomi has been pushing the limits of smartphone imaging, and this upcoming flagship might be their most ambitious step yet.

Slim Bezels & Immersive Display Experience

In addition to the camera innovations, leaks also point toward a bezel-less display on the front. The ultra-slim bezels will likely enhance the immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for gaming, streaming, and content creation. This aligns with Xiaomi’s continuous effort to blend cutting-edge performance with elegant, modern aesthetics.

Premium Build With Fiberglass & Color Options

The back of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is rumored to be made of fiberglass, a material known for its lightweight yet premium feel. This design choice will not only make the phone more durable but also provide a smoother finish compared to traditional glass.

Early information suggests that Xiaomi will offer three colors at launch: Classic Black, White, and a striking Purple variant. This combination will give users both professional and playful design options to match their style preferences.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 & Next-Gen Performance

At the heart of this upcoming device is expected to be the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, ensuring lightning-fast performance, enhanced battery efficiency, and AI-powered camera processing. This chipset is likely to boost image quality, deliver real-time scene optimization, and support advanced features such as 8K video recording and improved night mode.

With this level of hardware, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra aims to position itself as a top-tier flagship, going head-to-head with the likes of Samsung’s and Apple’s premium devices in 2025.

A Legacy of Camera Innovation

Xiaomi’s dedication to camera innovation isn’t new. The 12S Ultra stunned the tech community with its Leica lens integration, while the 15 Ultra introduced a professional camera kit that took mobile photography to another level. These experiments are now paying off as Xiaomi prepares to deliver a smartphone that might bridge the gap between professional cameras and high-end smartphones.

Expected Launch Timeline

Although the company has not officially confirmed the release date, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is expected to launch in late 2025. Industry watchers believe Xiaomi may unveil the device during a major tech event, possibly with additional accessories to enhance its photography features.

If the leaks are accurate, this device could mark a turning point for mobile imaging and set a new standard in DSLR-like smartphone experiences.

Final Thoughts

With a DSLR-inspired design, advanced periscope lens, ultra-slim bezels, and the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is shaping up to be one of the most powerful and visually striking smartphones of the year. If Xiaomi manages to deliver on these leaks, we could witness a device that blends professional camera quality with smartphone convenience like never before.

For content creators, photography enthusiasts, and tech lovers, this flagship could be a game changer. Keep an eye out for official announcements, as this launch might redefine the boundaries of mobile technology.