Numerous Xiaomi 13 Ultra customers have been showing some level of reluctance to migrate to the upcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra. Even though much hype has been raised about the impending arrival of the handset, some initial leaks have indicated a few compromises on the camera specifications. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra, having a strong update cycle as well as a world-class Sony IMX989 sensor, is arguably the leader even in 2025. Most customers of 13 Ultra, according to initial leaks from XiaomiTime, are likely to hold on till the arrival of the Xiaomi 18 Ultra.
Camera System Comparison
Even though both phones have a top-class camera configuration, it’s the Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s camera configuration that’s always preferred.
Xiaomi 13 Ultra Camera System
- 50MP Main (Sony IMX989, 1-inch, Variable Aperture)
- 50MP UltraWide (Sony IMX858, 1/1.75″)
- 50MP 3X Telephoto (Sony IMX858)
- 50MP 5X Telephoto (Sony IMX858)
The variable aperture lens, which allows for more flexible exposure, has been one of the features most lauded about the Xiaomi 13 Ultra. The floating lens group on the telephoto camera of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra has very sharp mid-focused areas, as well as very good optical image stabilization.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra Camera System
According to the latest leaks from XiaomiTime, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra would be launched in approximately two months, along with the following specifications:
- 50MP OV50X (1″, Main Sensor)
- 50MP JN5 (1/2.75″, Ultra Wide)
- 200MP HPE (1/1.4″, Telephoto with Continuous Optical Zoom)
- 50MP OV50M (1/2.88″, Front Camera)
If it is true that the high megapixel rating does not always equate to high image quality, it might be a drawback for some intended buyers. Nevertheless, according to connoisseurs, while Omnivision sensors would not be equal to those of Sony concerning natural colors and low light, it does have some advantages. The lack of a variable aperture, as
Why Xiaomi 13 Ultra Still Feels Fresh in 2025
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra also provides a period of update support of two years and seven months, so Android 17, as well as HyperOS 5, update support is available. It has the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 as well, so it does not lack in performance. For many buyers, it will be pointless to purchase another model as the current model is powerful, efficient, and looks stunning.
In fact, some feel that Xiaomi’s long term support and quality construction could cut down on upgrades, a double-edged sword that is good for consumers, but bad for sales.
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is definitely a manifestation of innovation, though, according to some long-time supporters, the sensors utilized, as well as the lacking features, can be questioned. The customers of Xiaomi 13 Ultra can expect the arrival of the “Xiaomi 18 Ultra,” which will restore the advanced sensors of Sony. –

Emir Bardakçı
