Xiaomi has officially re-entered the Ultra smartphone space in India with the launch of its latest flagship, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. Alongside, it has showcased the Xiaomi 17, a compact model designed for users who prefer a smaller yet powerful device. Both phones pack a variety of top-tier features, but the Ultra model stands out as an ambitious "camera-first" device, setting it apart from competitors. Let’s delve into what these two devices offer.

Design and Build

First impressions of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra reveal a strikingly large camera module that dominates 40% of the phone’s back. While imposing, the centrally placed module ensures balanced handling, unlike some off-center designs that make devices awkward to keep stable. Despite its size, the phone manages to stay within the acceptable weight category at 227-228g, a feat that speaks to its design efficiency.

The device features Gorilla Glass 7i protection for the camera module and Shield Glass 3.0 for the display, paired with a fiberglass rear build. Xiaomi has also incorporated an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. The volume rockers and power buttons, adorned with tactile round finishes and slight red accents, add a premium touch to the hardware.

Display

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra brings a cutting-edge screen to the table. It’s equipped with a 12-bit panel offering a 1.5K resolution, 3500 nits of peak brightness over 25% of the display area, and a 120Hz refresh rate. With support for Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Hyper RGB enhancements, the visual experience is unmatched. The ultra-thin bezels make the flat-panel display stand out, further emphasizing its high-end status.

Performance

At the heart of both the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Xiaomi 17 is the A8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, coupled with LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 4.1 storage for lightning-fast read/write speeds. The Ultra model is available in a single variant boasting 16GB RAM and 512GB of storage. Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate its consistent 120 FPS gameplay performance and efficient thermal control, thanks to the 5800mm² 3D Ice Loop Cooling Vapor Chamber. The haptic feedback during gaming and other usage scenarios is also notably precise, enhancing user interaction.

Battery and Charging

The device houses a massive 6000mAh silicon-carbon battery, complemented by 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging capabilities. Additional options include 22.5W reverse wired and 10W reverse wireless charging, ensuring versatile power options for users. Notably, the Xiaomi 17 offers a slightly smaller yet still impressive 6330mAh battery, paired with similar charging rates.

HyperOS 3.0

Both models debut Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3.0, based on Android 16. The OS promises five years of major updates and six years of security support. HyperOS introduces new features such as seamless connectivity with Apple products, AI-powered transcription and translation tools, and unparalleled customization options for the always-on display and lock screen. Xiaomi has also integrated a "Hyper Island" feature within the OS, further improving the software ecosystem.

Cameras

The highlight of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is undoubtedly its camera system. It features:

• A massive 50MP primary sensor with a 1-inch sensor size for superior light capture.
• A groundbreaking 200MP continuous zoom sensor offering optical-level clarity between 75mm and 100mm.
• A 50MP ultra-wide sensor.
• A 50MP selfie camera with impressive dynamic range and low-light capabilities.

Touted as more of a camera than a smartphone, the Ultra utilizes "Low-Fit Technology" to enhance still photography in challenging conditions. Whether capturing concert scenes, fireworks, or low-light images, the results appear significantly improved. For videography, the device offers 4K recording at 120FPS, with the option to shoot in log format for professional edits. Slow-motion enthusiasts can shoot up to 1920FPS.

There are additional improvements in portrait photography, such as continuous zoom for creating optical-level portraits between 75mm and 100mm. Xiaomi claims minimal issues like purple fringing even with high zoom levels, thanks to custom materials used in the sensors.

Note that the Ultra lacks a tele-macro mode but supports other advanced camera-centric features including Dolby Vision video creation, Leica filters, live cinematography, and even a built-in teleprompter mode for creators.

Compact Appeal: Xiaomi 17

While the Xiaomi 17 Ultra steals the spotlight, the Xiaomi 17 offers much to admire in a more compact form factor. It sports a 6.3-inch display with similar 12-bit technology and 1.5K resolution. For photography enthusiasts, it includes a triple 50MP rear camera array and the same 50MP selfie shooter. Despite its smaller frame, the device still houses a generous battery and the same software and connectivity options as its larger sibling.

Pricing and Availability

While the European pricing is currently listed at 1699 Euros for the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and 999 Euros for the base Xiaomi 17, Indian pricing details remain unconfirmed. Xiaomi typically adjusts pricing for the Indian market, making the devices more competitively priced compared to their European tags.

Final Thoughts

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra clearly positions itself as a top-tier flagship for users who prioritize cameras and display quality. With significant advancements in low-light photography, continuous zoom, and video recording features, it rivals dedicated camera hardware in many aspects. Meanwhile, the Xiaomi 17 caters to individuals who prefer a lighter and more compact smartphone with nearly identical features. Whether you lean towards the Ultra or the more compact Xiaomi 17, Xiaomi has crafted a compelling lineup that reinforces its place in the upper echelons of the smartphone market.