Emir BardakçıThe latest reports from the industry suggest that one of the incoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 flagships will feature a “super-sized” one-inch main camera sensor with over 100dB of dynamic range, and all evidence currently points to the Xiaomi 17 Ultra being that device. Initial information from insiders like Digital Chat Station suggests that this new generation of imaging might bring one of the best low-light and HDR performances on any Xiaomi flagship.
A New Imaging Breakthrough With the OV50X Sensor
Recent insights reveal that it uses OmniVision’s OV50X, a next-generation one-inch sensor with a claimed dynamic range of 16EV, which translates to over 100dB in practical scenarios. This expanded dynamic range allows the sensor to catch significantly more highlight and shadow detail, especially in demanding lighting conditions. Thanks to its larger light-intake area, the sensor positions the Xiaomi 17 Ultra as one of the few Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 flagships offering a true one-inch optical setup.
Lofic Technology: Enabling Higher Performance
The blogger also corroborated that the sensor uses LOFIC (Lateral Overflow Integration Capacitor) technology-a feature utilized by OmniVision and SmartSens, while Sony will use it next year. LOFIC basically allows sensors to retain detail in very bright settings without losing any integrity within shadows. The nature of this underlying technology improves HDR photography and offers better, more predictable performance between low and high light levels.
Advantages of LOFIC for Flagship Imaging
The LOFIC improves the handling of sensors regarding overflow charges for reduced clipping in highlights and smoother tonal transitions, making the upcoming Xiaomi 17 Ultra especially capable for landscape, night, and motion photography, where exposure consistency is crucial.
Advanced Optics and Exclusive Lens Technology
According to industry sources, the flagship in question will have:
- A super-large f/1.6X equivalent aperture main sensor
- Next-generation LOFIC technology
- Full-element optical coatings
- A 200MP periscope telephoto lens with an equivalent aperture of F8.6±
- Mid-to-long-range optical zoom capability
- An optical module exclusively developed for this manufacturer, strengthening speculation that it belongs to Xiaomi’s Ultra-tier platform
These elements put together indicate that Xiaomi is working on one of the most advanced mobile photography systems, especially for telephoto consistency and long-range clarity.
Xiaomi 17 Ultra kit leak reveals surprise triple camera setup
Expected Role in the Xiaomi 17 Ultra
If consistent hints from industry analysts and the listed specifications are anything to go by, this camera system is very likely to make its debut on the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, which is known for its imaging-first design philosophy. Ultra models from Xiaomi have traditionally brought major leaps in camera hardware, and this one-inch OV50X setup fits perfectly with the strategy seen in previous generations.
