At MWC Barcelona, Xiaomi revealed a novel cameraphone concept that differs from previous models. It utilizes the smartphone’s ISP for efficient post-processing, with the lens connecting via proprietary LaserLink at 10 Gbps. The modular lens attaches magnetically to a modified Xiaomi 15 but requires precise alignment, making it slightly awkward to use. Despite this, switching between cameras is smooth, though the lens can obstruct the ultrawide camera. The lens features a 100MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, delivering 25MP photos through quad-binning and has a 35mm adaptable aperture. Currently, there’s no plan for mass production, and Xiaomi emphasizes in-house development.
This year at MWC in Barcelona, Spain, Xiaomi introduced an intriguing new concept for a cameraphone. While it draws inspiration from previous efforts by other brands, Xiaomi’s methodology differs significantly. For instance, Sony once experimented with an external lens managed by an Xperia smartphone.
The primary benefit of Xiaomi’s concept is its reliance on the smartphone’s ISP for post-processing, ensuring all enhancements occur directly on the device. The connection between the phone and the lens is facilitated through Xiaomi’s proprietary LaserLink, allowing data transfer at an impressive speed of 10 Gbps.
The lens attaches magnetically to a modified Xiaomi 15 using Qi2 technology, akin to MagSafe on iPhones. However, securing the module can be a bit tricky, as it must be positioned just right, aligning with two pins on the back. You’ll hear a subtle “snap” to indicate correct placement, but it’s easy to overlook, necessitating double-checks. An icon on the camera’s viewfinder also confirms a successful connection.
Given that the Xiaomi 15 is relatively compact and slim, the 100-gram lens adds a level of awkwardness when holding the setup, and it’s clear that using it with a case isn’t feasible.
In terms of overall usability, the experience is impressively fluid. It hardly feels like a concept; there’s no noticeable lag, and switching between the modular lens and other cameras happens seamlessly. However, due to the lens’s protrusion, it obstructs the ultrawide camera, which can result in its presence appearing in some photos.
The external lens draws power from the smartphone only while in use. When switching to another camera, it turns off, but it can take one to two seconds to activate, which can lead to missed photographic opportunities.
The lens is equipped with impressive specifications, featuring a 100MP Light Fusion X Micro Four Thirds sensor, which exceeds the size of the 1-inch type sensors found in some flagship Android devices, including the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. It offers a crop factor of 2x and employs quad-binning, resulting in images capturing at a native resolution of 25MP.
This sensor is paired with a 35mm lens, which has an aperture range from f/1.4 to f/11. It includes a manual focusing ring, though shutter speed adjustments can only be made through Pro camera mode.
Controlling the modular lens
Interestingly, the entire module has been developed in-house without any third-party collaboration, including the lens itself. While Xiaomi hasn’t completely ruled out the possibility of partnering with Leica for mass production in the future, the company is currently focusing on keeping costs low by handling everything internally.
As of now, Xiaomi has not revealed any concrete plans to bring this concept to market, so it’s best not to get your hopes up.