The Xiaomi 14 Ultra was one of the best camera phones of 2024, impressing with its large 1-inch image sensor and variable aperture.
Now, attention is turning to its successor, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, which is expected to continue the brand’s focus on photography.
Here’s a rundown of what we know so far about the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and what might make it one of the top contenders for the best camera phone of 2025.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Release Date and Price
Xiaomi has already unveiled the base Xiaomi 15 and 15 Pro in China, and the 15 Ultra is expected to follow a similar release timeline to its predecessor.
While an official launch date is yet to be confirmed, the 14 Ultra was announced in February 2024, with global availability in March. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to be priced similarly, with the 14 Ultra retailing for £1,299 (approx. $1,640).
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Cameras
Xiaomi’s Ultra series is known for its exceptional camera capabilities, and the 15 Ultra is expected to push the envelope even further. According to leaks, the periscope telephoto camera will sport a massive 200-megapixel sensor, a significant upgrade from the 50-megapixel sensor on the 14 Ultra.
However, this comes with a slight reduction in optical zoom, dropping from 5x to 4.4x. Despite this, the increased resolution should allow for better digital zoom without sacrificing image quality.
Leaks also suggest that Xiaomi will continue its partnership with Leica, ensuring top-tier lens optics and enhanced color profiles for stunning images.
The main camera is expected to retain its 1-inch sensor, and fans are hoping Xiaomi will keep or even improve its variable aperture, which can range from f/1.6 to f/4, ideal for both low-light and starburst effects.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Processor, Display, and Battery
The Xiaomi 14 Ultra featured the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and the 15 Ultra is expected to be powered by the latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, which debuted in the OnePlus 13 and is also found in Samsung’s Galaxy S25 lineup.
This chip promises faster performance and enhanced AI capabilities, which could lead to improved on-device AI tools for both photography and other tasks.
The display is rumored to remain at 6.7 inches, similar to the 14 Ultra, while the battery could be upgraded to 6,000mAh, up from the 5,000mAh battery in the previous model.
The phone will likely continue to support 90W wired charging, although some fans are hoping for even faster charging speeds, as Xiaomi has previously offered 120W charging on other devices.
Key Rumors and Features:
- Camera: 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera, 1-inch image sensor, Leica optics.
- Processor: Snapdragon 8 Elite for improved performance and AI tasks.
- Display: 6.7-inch screen, possibly with minor upgrades.
- Battery: Potentially 6,000mAh with 90W wired charging.
- Price: Expected to be in the same range as the Xiaomi 14 Ultra (£1,299 or $1,640).
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra could be a standout in 2025, particularly for photography enthusiasts, thanks to its powerful camera upgrades and cutting-edge AI features. Keep an eye out for more details as the official launch approaches.
