Xiaomi is shaking up the smartphone camera game with its latest flagship, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra. The Chinese company’s bold strategy involves making a phone where the camera takes center stage, collaborating with none other than German camera-maker Leica to achieve this. Unlike other phone-makers that prioritize computational photography and “images,” Xiaomi is focusing on real camera hardware to create authentic photos that represent their subjects accurately. In addition to the four large camera sensors, the Ultra comes with an accessory that mimics the Nokia 1020’s camera grip and adds a physical shutter button and a zoom lever. With a revamped Pro Mode menu that allows for more comprehensive controls, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra has the potential to rival even the reigning iPhone 14 Pro in the video department. If you’re in the market for a phone that prioritizes camera capabilities, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra might just be the best camera phone of the year.
