Xiaomi 18 aims to transform mobile photography with magnetic lenses
On the occasion of MWC 2025, Xiaomi unveiled to the world its concept of a modular-camera phone and it seems that this novelty will not remain just a design exercise. The rumors about a commercial device are growing more intense, and this time even talk is circulating about the Xiaomi18 series, which could have a system similar to the one seen in Barcelona.
The Xiaomi 18 series will be equipped with modular cameras: revealed by a new leak
MWC 2025 concept – Photo credits: GSMArena
The first concept shown by Xiaomi was as simple as it was effective: a flagship with a very normal design but equipped with a magnetic mount on the chassis. The magnet system is not used for wireless charging (or at least not only) but allows inserting an additional lens: in the case of the model shown at MWC 2025 it was a module with a 100 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor with a 35 mm focal length and a variable aperture from f/1.4 to f/11.
Clearly these specifications pertain to the concept, and we do not know what features the magnetic lenses that will be released commercially will have. According to a well-known Chinese insider, the Xiaomi 18 family will also be equipped with a modular camera system.
Based on reports, Xiaomi is currently testing various lenses and telephoto lenses for the next flagship generation. This way users will have a capable photography system at their disposal, while photography enthusiasts can aim for additional accessories to expand the experience toward a more professional horizon.
The big advantage is having a complex system within the size of a traditional smartphone. Nevertheless, the first phone with modular lenses should be Xiaomi 17 Fold, expected in the summer: this would thus be the brand’s testbed for the new technology before implementing it in the regular series.
Awaiting more information, here is a summary of the leaked specifications for the entire upcoming Xiaomi 18 series: here is what we can expect technically, at least according to leaks so far.
Presumed technical specifications
Xiaomi 18
Dimensions and weight:
Color options:
Certification: IP68
Display: Flat OLED 6.4″ 1.5K, Li-Po, LTPO 120 Hz refresh rate, 300 Hz touch sampling, 12-bit color, DC Dimming 2,160 Hz and peak brightness up to 3,500 nits
Camera: triple 200 + 50 + 200 MP (f/?), with OIS, ultra-wide and periscope telephoto/macro with OIS | Leica optics
Selfie camera: 100 MP (f/?)
Connectivity and others: Dual SIM 5G, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, Dual GPS, stereo speakers, USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, UWB
Operating system: Android 17 with HyperOS 4
Gabriele Cascone
Innamorato della tecnologia, con un occhio di riguardo verso smartphone e gaming, è legato indissolubilmente al mondo Nerd. Serie TV, film, giochi, manga, anime e comics sono all'ordine del giorno.