First details about the upcoming Xiaomi 18 periscope camera have emerged, pointing to a major shift in mobile photography. According to a reliable source, Xiaomi plans to equip not just its top-tier models but the entire series with a groundbreaking 200MP periscope telephoto lens, a feature typically reserved for premium devices.
Xiaomi 18 Periscope Camera and Display Specs Leaked
The information comes from the well-known leaker Digital Chat Station (DCS). According to their report, engineering prototypes of the Xiaomi 18 are currently being tested with screen sizes ranging from 6.3 to 6.4 inches. This is a slight increase from the 6.3-inch display of its predecessor, the Xiaomi 17.
This minor size adjustment is likely necessary to accommodate the new and advanced internal components. Specifically, a massive 200-megapixel periscope sensor would require more physical space, making the larger screen a logical design choice.
However, the most exciting development is on the camera front. The leak suggests that Xiaomi intends to use a 200MP periscope telephoto camera across the entire 18 series. This includes the Xiaomi 18, 18 Pro, 18 Pro Max, and the 18 Ultra, which is expected later in the year. This is a revolutionary step, especially for the standard model, as it represents a significant upgrade in zoom capabilities from the standard telephoto lens in the Xiaomi 17.
What is a Periscope Camera and Why is it Important?
So, what distinguishes a periscope camera from a standard telephoto lens? Traditional telephoto lenses require a group of lenses that move vertically away from the sensor to achieve optical zoom, which increases the phone’s thickness. A periscope camera, on the other hand, uses a prism to bend light 90 degrees, directing it through a lens array that lies horizontally within the phone’s body.
This “folded optics” design enables much higher levels of optical zoom without making the device thicker. Therefore, capabilities like 5x, 10x, or even higher optical zoom are typically achieved using periscope lenses. Combining this technology with a high resolution of 200MP means the Xiaomi 18 could capture incredibly detailed long-distance photos, even when digitally cropped.
Xiaomi’s Strategic Move in Mobile Photography
Xiaomi has shown a significant commitment to mobile photography in recent years, particularly through its collaboration with Leica. Models like the Xiaomi 14 Ultra have already challenged professional cameras with their large sensors and advanced lens technology. Now, the plan seems to be bringing this high-end technology to the standard model of the series.
This strategy could be aimed at increasing market share by targeting a broad audience that seeks superior camera performance but may not have the budget for ‘Pro’ or ‘Ultra’ models. In a market where competitors often reserve their best camera hardware for the most expensive devices, adding a 200MP periscope camera to the standard model would create a strong competitive advantage for Xiaomi.
Future Expectations: Processor and Launch
Beyond the camera and screen, the processor powering the Xiaomi 18 series is also a topic of interest. Leaks mention the ‘Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6’ chipset, which is not an officially announced platform. It is presumed that this name is either a codename or refers to a future flagship Snapdragon processor, such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 or Gen 5.
Regardless, the series is expected to deliver top-tier performance. Xiaomi is anticipated to unveil three models in China this September: the Xiaomi 18, 18 Pro, and 18 Pro Max. The most ambitious model, the Ultra, may be introduced at a separate launch event towards the end of the year.
So, what are your thoughts on the Xiaomi 18’s potential 200MP periscope camera? Share your opinions with us in the comments!
