Xiaomi unveiled the Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra smartphones and stressed camera hardware innovation over AI, The Verge reported on Tuesday.
Angus Ng (응), Xiaomi's communications director, said, "We are still exploring the limits of hardware," adding, "We will consider software when innovation becomes harder."
AI-based image processing is already being used, but he explained that Xiaomi does not put it front and centre like Samsung because, "When we focused on AI processing, consumer response was not positive." Instead, Xiaomi is focusing on optical technology and developed premium lenses in collaboration with Leica. The 17 Ultra is equipped with a Leica Summilux lens, while the 17 Pro uses a cheaper Summicron lens.
Ng said, "We split the two models to clearly distinguish differences in lens structure and performance," adding, "A strategy focused on hardware is getting a more positive response from existing consumers." Xiaomi's position is that AI is limited to a supporting role and that hardware innovation is the top priority.