Chinese smartphone maker RealMe has introduced a groundbreaking concept phone that allows users to attach full-size mirrorless camera lenses. Unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, the device aims to blur the line between smartphones and professional cameras.
The Interchangeable-lens concept phone features a custom adapter, enabling users to mount lenses typically used on high-end cameras like the Leica M11 or Canon R6. This allows for greater zoom, enhanced image quality, and creative photography options. It even supports older DSLR lenses, making it a game-changer for photography enthusiasts.
The phone is built around a 1-inch type Sony sensor, similar to what is used in high-end smartphones like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. RealMe’s approach is reminiscent of Xiaomi’s 12S Ultra concept from 2022, which also experimented with attaching full-sized camera lenses. This year, Xiaomi unveiled a new concept where a large image sensor attaches magnetically to a phone.
Alongside the lens-swapping feature, RealMe is showcasing an AI-powered voice-based photo editor. Users can edit images simply by giving voice commands, making photography more accessible and intuitive.
The idea of merging smartphones with DSLR-like features isn’t entirely new. Over a decade ago, Samsung introduced the Galaxy Camera, which combined Android with a point-and-shoot camera. However, such designs never became mainstream, with most brands focusing on improving built-in phone cameras instead.
If RealMe brings this concept to market, it could revolutionize smartphone photography, offering the power of a professional camera with the convenience of a phone.
