Automatic Camera Mode Performance Could Be Improved
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra emerges as a strong contender in the premium smartphone market, succeeding the acclaimed Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Known for its impressive camera system, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra set a high benchmark for mobile photography. The latest iteration, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, largely meets these expectations, delivering powerful performance and advanced features.
This flagship phone boasts a stunning display and a camera configuration capable of capturing remarkable images. While a photography kit, enhancing the device with a grip and shutter button for a more traditional camera-like experience, remains an option, certain drawbacks prevent the 15 Ultra from achieving unequivocal success.
After extensive testing, including capturing over 1,000 photographs, it becomes evident that while the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is capable of producing outstanding images, optimal results necessitate user effort. Relying solely on the automatic mode may not fully unlock the phone’s photographic potential. This device is tailored towards photography enthusiasts and dedicated users; casual users might find the iPhone 16 Pro or Pixel 9 Pro more suitable due to their user-friendly automatic functionalities.
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra retains the 1-inch type image sensor for its primary camera, a feature shared with its predecessor. The absence of a hardware enhancement is notable, especially given the device’s elevated price. Xiaomi has also removed the variable aperture present in the 14 Ultra, a feature lauded by many, opting instead for software-based alternatives deemed inadequate replacements.
Although the practical advantages of variable aperture may be subtle for average users, its removal in favor of software solutions is a step away from hardware innovation. This shift echoes a broader industry trend where software and AI advancements overshadow hardware improvements. Ironically, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra was previously praised for its hardware-driven image excellence, a commendation less applicable to this current model.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra: Photography Powerhouse at MWC 2025
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Undeniably, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra stands as a powerful Android device. Robust performance, satisfactory battery life, and a vibrant display are befitting of a flagship model. Furthermore, the provision of six years of software updates is a noteworthy advantage. However, the device commands a high price. Currently available in the UK and Europe, the 16GB RAM/512GB storage configuration starts at £1,299, escalating to £1,499 for the 1TB version. This pricing exceeds that of both the iPhone 16 Pro and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
While US availability remains unconfirmed, the base UK price approximates to $1,630 or AU$2,630.
The crucial question remains: does the Xiaomi 15 Ultra justify its cost? Let’s delve deeper.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra Camera Performance: Image Quality and Modes
Extensive testing, involving over 1,000 images and continuing throughout 2025, across diverse locations like Scotland, England, Barcelona, and Sweden, has provided a comprehensive understanding of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s camera capabilities. Trials encompassed various photographic scenarios, including street, landscape, and travel photography, to thoroughly evaluate its performance.
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is capable of capturing genuinely exceptional images, rivaling those from professional-grade cameras. Certain shots are portfolio-worthy, comparable to images produced by high-end cameras such as the Canon R5 and Leica Q3 43. Central to the 15 Ultra’s imaging prowess is the Sony LYT-900 1-inch type image sensor, also utilized in the 14 Ultra. This sensor, physically larger than most smartphone camera sensors, typically enables superior detail and dynamic range in captured images.
Exposure handling demonstrates precision.
Sharp details and vivid colors highlight the standard mode’s effectiveness.
High contrast black and white mode excels, particularly for street photography.
However, achieving optimal results with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra requires user intervention. In automatic mode, image quality can be inconsistent. A primary concern is white balance, frequently skewing towards cooler tones, rendering potentially warm, sunny scenes as cold and unappealing.
White balance adjustments are unavailable in standard camera mode, necessitating a switch to Pro mode for manual settings. Adjusting white balance to warmer settings and slightly underexposing images via exposure compensation often yields improved results compared to default automatic exposure settings.
Standard auto mode sunset capture appears noticeably lackluster.
Manual Pro mode adjustments to white balance and exposure significantly enhance image quality.
Manual adjustments in Pro mode lead to significant image enhancement, mirroring a more deliberate photographic process akin to using cameras like the Leica Q3 43. This involves a slower, more thoughtful approach to image creation rather than quick point-and-shoot photography.
Image capture utilized both JPEG and DNG raw formats, with raw files offering greater post-processing flexibility in applications like Adobe Lightroom. Following a firmware update, raw file quality and editability are improved. For maximum image quality, shooting in both JPEG and raw is advisable.
Straight-out-of-camera JPEG, darkened to capture sky detail.
DNG raw format enables shadow detail recovery, enhancing image appeal.
Ultra-wide lens image, JPEG and raw, edited cinematically in Adobe Lightroom.
Employing this workflow unlocks the Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s potential for producing impressive images. However, for users prioritizing quick, effortless shots, the iPhone 16 Pro, Galaxy S25 Ultra, or Pixel 9 Pro may be preferable due to their more consistent automatic mode performance. While the standard mode on the 15 Ultra can occasionally perform well, switching to Pro mode grants necessary creative command.
Similar to the 14 Ultra, built-in Leica high contrast black and white filters remain a favored feature, delivering a striking monochrome aesthetic ideal for street photography, especially when coupled with the optional camera grip.
4.3x optical zoom lens captures sharp images with pleasing depth of field in black and white street scene.
Pro mode capture exhibiting balanced highlights and shadows for a vibrant sunset.
Portrait mode effectively isolates subjects with attractive depth of field.
In nighttime conditions, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is capable of superb photography, especially with manual white balance adjustments. However, the removal of variable aperture is noticeable. The 14 Ultra’s variable aperture enabled authentic starburst effects around light sources in night scenes, a feature absent in the 15 Ultra, where light sources appear as amorphous blobs, common in other smartphones.
Wide aperture and large sensor enable bright, sharp low-light captures.
High contrast mode for striking black and white night scenes.
Pro mode with manual white balance adjustments enhancing night scene, starburst effect absent.
Variable aperture was a standout feature of the 14 Ultra, enhancing the aesthetic of night photos. Its absence in the 15 Ultra is a genuine disappointment, although the appeal of starburst effects in urban night photography may be niche.
Enhanced Photography Experience: The Xiaomi 15 Ultra Photography Kit
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra photography kit, an optional accessory carried over from the previous model, includes a protective case, a grip with integrated shutter button and settings dial, and a filter adapter compatible with standard 67mm photographic filters. The filter ring broadens creative possibilities for advanced photographers, enabling the use of circular polarizers, neutral density filters, and specialized filters.
The grip significantly improves ergonomics, particularly for on-the-go street photography. It securely attaches to the phone, extends battery life, and allows operation akin to a compact camera via the shutter button and settings wheel.
Camera grip enhances handling and replicates camera-like operation.
Additions to the kit include a thumb grip attachment for improved handling and a larger, more tactile screw-in shutter release button. For enthusiasts of street or travel photography utilizing their smartphone, the photography kit is a worthwhile investment, albeit adding approximately £250 to the overall cost of an already premium device.
Performance and Software: Xiaomi 15 Ultra Processor and AI Capabilities
Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, also seen in models like the OnePlus 13, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra delivers impressive processing power. Benchmark testing yields high scores, and everyday performance is characterized by speed and responsiveness.
The device excels in gaming, smoothly running demanding titles such as Genshin Impact at maximum graphics settings and 60fps. Beyond raw power, the Snapdragon 8 Elite is engineered for enhanced AI processing, reflected in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s integrated AI features.
Standard integration of Google Gemini and Gemini Advanced provides features like conversational Gemini Live and Circle to Search. Xiaomi complements these with proprietary AI tools, including a generative text creation tool and a voice-to-text transcription feature, beneficial for content creators.
Runs on Android 15 platform.
AI-driven image tools facilitate generative image expansion, object removal, and image sharpening. Functionality of these tools is generally reliable, though they require internet connectivity, including the voice transcription tool.
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra launches with Android 15 and is slated to receive four major Android updates and six years of security updates. While this falls short of the seven years offered by Samsung and Google for their flagship devices, the six-year support period is still substantial, exceeding average smartphone ownership duration and matching OnePlus’s support for the OnePlus 13.
Comfortable one-handed use despite 6.7-inch display.
Battery, Display, and Build: Xiaomi 15 Ultra Design and Features
Battery performance is adequate for a full day’s use under typical conditions but not exceptional. In video streaming tests, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra outperformed the OnePlus 13 but lagged behind the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. For heavy usage, particularly extended camera use during travel, a portable battery pack is advisable.
Standard overnight charging is recommended. The device supports 90W wired fast charging, facilitating rapid power replenishment with a compatible charger.
The 6.7-inch display maintains visibility even in bright sunlight and offers vibrant colors suitable for gaming and video content. IP68-rated water resistance provides protection against spills, and the glass and metal construction lends a premium feel.
Final Verdict: Is the Xiaomi 15 Ultra Worth Buying?
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra comprehensively addresses expectations for a contemporary flagship smartphone. It delivers мощный performance, a high-quality display, considerable software support duration, and essential features like fast charging and water resistance. However, its high price point remains a significant consideration, potentially unjustifiable for users who are not avid photographers.
Camera system is primary differentiator from competitors.
As with its forerunner, the camera system is the principal justification for choosing the Xiaomi 15 Ultra over competitors. Users seeking effortless, high-quality casual photos may find alternative Android phones or the iPhone more suitable, offering superior automatic mode performance at lower costs. Nevertheless, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra excels in producing exceptional images for those willing to invest time in manual settings and post-processing.
While improvements over the 14 Ultra’s camera are incremental and the removal of variable aperture is a drawback, for dedicated travel and street photographers seeking a high-caliber everyday camera in smartphone form, the 15 Ultra remains a compelling option.
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