Xiaomi is continuing its preparations for its new flagship series. According to reports, the Xiaomi 16, Xiaomi 16 Pro, and a new model to be added to the series are expected to be unveiled in September this year. However, the most exciting details have emerged for the Xiaomi 16 Ultra, planned to be the top-of-the-line model and expected to be released in the first half of 2026.
The Xiaomi 16 Ultra will rock its camera
Leaks focus on the Xiaomi 16 Ultra’s alleged continuous optical zoom technology. While most phones today switch between fixed focal lengths like 2x, 5x, and 10x, this new technology promises to deliver a smooth zoom experience at all focal lengths in between, like a professional camera lens, without any loss of image quality.
This revolutionary feature is rumored to be available on the Pro and Pro Max models, provided it delivers meaningful results. However, the leaks indicate that the hardware differences will directly impact quality.
If the Xiaomi 16 Pro uses a more modest Samsung JN5 sensor, its continuous zoom performance could fall short of expectations. The Xiaomi 16 Pro Max, however, is rumored to utilize a larger 1/1.95-inch GN8 sensor, potentially unlocking the full potential of this technology and delivering even more impressive results.
According to leaks, the Xiaomi 16 Ultra will push the boundaries not only with its zoom capabilities but also with its other hardware features:
Main Camera: It will feature a massive 1-inch sensor with a 50-megapixel resolution, which has become the industry standard.
Telephoto Camera: It will feature a periscope lens with a full 200-megapixel resolution.
Ultra-Wide Angle: It will use a 50-megapixel Sony LYT600 sensor.
Processing Power: It is expected to be powered by Qualcomm’s next-generation Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 platform, which has not yet been officially announced. (Although the leaks refer to it as “Snapdragon 8 Elite 2,” this is thought to be a codename or early naming of the next-generation chipset.)
Display: It will feature a 6.85-inch, 1.5K resolution Real RGB OLED flat screen.
Battery and Charging: A massive 7,000mAh battery, designed to keep users away from power outlets, will support both 100W wired and 50W wireless charging, which will quickly top up the battery.
While these leaks have not yet been confirmed by Xiaomi, if the claims turn out to be true, it’s clear that the Xiaomi 16 Ultra has the potential to disrupt the market, especially in the mobile photography space.
