The Xiaomi 17 Ultra may arrive earlier than expected. A new leak suggests Xiaomi plans to release the phone before Samsung’s next Galaxy Ultra.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra could launch ahead of Galaxy S26 Ultra
Xiaomi just introduced the 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max in China. But insiders say the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is already in the works and may launch ahead of the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
This wouldn’t be the first time Xiaomi has tried to beat Samsung to market. The company often reveals hardware just before key Galaxy events.
Custom Snapdragon chip could give it an edge
Tipster Digital Chat Station claims the Xiaomi 17 Ultra won’t just reuse the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Instead, it may use a special “Ultra Premium Edition” of the chip.
That version could offer better thermal performance or higher clock speeds. If true, it would give the Ultra a leg up on devices like the OnePlus 15 and Realme GT 8 Pro.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra camera setup targets lossless zoom
Cameras will be central to this phone’s pitch. The leak outlines a stacked setup with:
- Samsung ISOCELL JN5 (telephoto)
- Samsung ISOCELL HPE (200 MP tele macro)
- OmniVision OVX10500U (main sensor)
Together, these sensors could enable physical zoom-like transitions across multiple focal lengths. Xiaomi appears to focus on creating true lossless zoom, not just digital enhancement.
Global launch may lag behind Chinese release
Despite rumors of an early debut, Xiaomi is likely to launch the Ultra in China first. The global version could follow months later, likely after Samsung finishes its S26 series rollout.
Historically, Xiaomi has favored a China-first strategy with its Ultra models. The global market tends to get them only after Samsung sets its flag.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra aims to lead the premium pack
If these reports prove accurate, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be more than just a late addition. It could signal Xiaomi’s intention to lead the premium Android race and do it on its own timeline.
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