Xiaomi is expanding its smartphone lineup with two new midrange models that pack some serious camera hardware. The 17T and 17T Pro both include 5x telephoto cameras – a feature typically reserved for flagship devices – along with large batteries and high-refresh displays.
This move signals how premium camera technology continues to trickle down to more affordable phones. While many flagship phones still max out at 4x optical zoom, Xiaomi is bringing true 5x telephoto capabilities to devices priced well under $1,100.
17T Pro leads with flagship-level specs
The larger Xiaomi 17T Pro launched with impressive specifications across the board:
- 6.83-inch AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution (2,772 x 1,280)
- 144Hz refresh rate and 3,500-nit peak brightness
- 50MP main camera with Leica lens and optical image stabilization
- 50MP 5x telephoto camera with OIS and 120x AI zoom
- 12MP ultrawide camera
- 7,000mAh silicon-carbon battery with 100W fast charging
The device runs on MediaTek’s 3nm Dimensity 9500 processor, which should deliver solid performance while maximizing the massive battery life.
Standard 17T keeps key camera features
The smaller Xiaomi 17T maintains the same core camera setup while making some compromises elsewhere. It has a 6.59-inch 1.5K AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rates and the same 3,500-nit brightness. The camera array is nearly identical, though it lacks the Leica-branded lens on the main sensor.
Inside, the 17T uses MediaTek’s 4nm Dimensity 8500-Ultra processor and a 6,500mAh battery – still impressively large by industry standards. Both phones support the same 100W fast charging speeds.
Leica partnership expands to midrange
Xiaomi continues its collaboration with Leica even on these more affordable devices. The 17T series introduces “Leica Live Moment,” which captures short video clips alongside still photos – similar to Apple’s Live Photos feature. This works across all camera sensors and applies Leica’s photo processing to both stills and video.
The feature also integrates with Portrait mode, giving users more creative options for their photography.
Pricing targets competitive midrange market
Xiaomi has priced both phones aggressively for the European market:
- 17T Pro: £799 (approximately $1,070)
- 17T: £650 (approximately $871)
The devices will be available through Xiaomi’s online store and retail locations across the UK and Europe. However, there’s still no official word on US availability – a recurring theme for Xiaomi’s recent releases.
These phones represent how the midrange smartphone market continues to evolve, with manufacturers bringing flagship features like advanced zoom cameras and massive batteries to more accessible price points.