Xiaomi and Leica Camera AG have unveiled the Xiaomi x Leica Optical Institute which aims to integrate optical technology with digital imaging and AI to produce the next generation of mobile photography.
Xiaomi willprovide robust R&D support for the Institute. Currently, three major laboratories are planned in Beijing, with focuses on Camera Hardware, Imaging, and Objective and Subjective Image Quality Evaluation. Covering a total area of 2,644 square meters, Xiaomi says these facilities will be amongst the best, largest, and most automated camera laboratories.
The institute’s focus (pun intended) is on setting new industry standards for optical performance in smartphones. Their flagship product, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, is claimed to have “unparalleled mobile imaging” with its advanced optical capabilities, when it is released soon.
More than 200 experts under the leadership of optical designer Peter Karbe and Xiaomi’s Zeng Xuezong, will develop innovations in compact lens design, computational photography, and optoelectronic technology.
Xiaomi’s President, William Lu, emphasizes the partnership’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of mobile imaging. Matthias Harsch, CEO of Leica Camera AG, hghlighetd their joint dedication to creating a new era of mobile imaging optics.