Xiaomi & Leica announces an optical institute in China

In the recent times, the Chinese smartphone company Xiaomi has made major advancements in mobile photography. Reportedly, it is one of the first companies that is offering the first 1-inch camera sensor. Well, the major contributing factor behind this success is the potential partnership between Xiaomi and Leica. Through this deal, Xiaomi has introduced powerful camera hardware and software for its smartphones.

According to some recent pieces of information, Xiaomi and Leica have announced an optical institute. The institute will work on designing ultra-precision optical lenses in a compact form factor. In this way, the lenses will offer ideal performance in computational photography. The institute will work on maintaining the highest optical requirements for lenses, as well as researching and using state-of-the-art optoelectronic technologies.

Reportedly, the creation of the new institute is backed by the involvement of key contributors from both companies. Peter Karbe will serve as an optical epert at the new institute. He is known for his remarkable work on Leica’s premium Noctilux and APO lenses. Zeng Xuezong, on the other hand, will serve as the Director of the institute. He is currently heading the Xiaomi Mobile Phone Department and Xiaomi Group in the capacity of a Senior Vice President and a President. Deputy directors will include Wang Xuanran, general manager of the Xiaomi Camera Department, and Yi Yan, head of the Xiaomi Group’s software technical team.

There is no official word on whether the new institute has been established in partnership between Xiaomi and Leica. As part of this plan, three major laboratories will be established in Beijing. These laboratories will focus on Objective and Subjective Image Quality Evaluation, Imaging, and Camera Hardware. It appears like Xiaomi is aiming at leveling up the mobile photography game. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra comes with some great camera specs. We can anticipate the same or something more advanced for the upcoming Xiaomi 14 Ultra.