In the fiercely competitive realm of flagship smartphones, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra emerges as a formidable contender, poised to challenge the dominance of industry giants like Samsung and Apple. While its latest iteration may appear as an incremental upgrade typical of 2025 flagship devices, several key enhancements set it apart, alongside one notable downgrade that warrants attention.
A Big New Camera
At the heart of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra lies its camera prowess, a focal point that the brand has consistently emphasized. With the introduction of a groundbreaking 200Mp periscope lens, a significant leap from the 50Mp lens of its predecessor, this device promises unparalleled imaging capabilities. Despite a slight reduction in zoom length from 5x to 4.3x, the enhanced resolution and advanced specifications result in a remarkable 136% increase in light capture, showcasing Xiaomi’s commitment to pushing boundaries in photography technology. However, the absence of a variable aperture in the main camera marks a departure from the innovative features of the past.
A Big Performance Jump
Equipped with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra delivers a substantial performance boost, placing it on par with leading competitors in the market. The chipset’s superior processing capabilities not only outshine its predecessor, the 8 Gen 3, but also demonstrate remarkable efficiency in power consumption. Benchmark tests reveal a remarkable 42% improvement in performance on Geekbench 6 and an impressive 37% increase in battery life during PCMark tests, underscoring the device’s exceptional computational prowess.
Bigger Battery, Same Space
In a commendable feat of engineering, Xiaomi has managed to enhance the device’s battery capacity without compromising its sleek form factor. By integrating cutting-edge 10% silicone carbide technology, the battery capacity of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has been increased from 5000mAh to 5410mAh, ensuring prolonged usage without sacrificing portability. Although the international version falls short of the 6000mAh battery featured in its Chinese counterpart, the efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset optimizes power consumption, resulting in extended battery longevity.
A Design Backstep
While subjective, the design evolution of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra introduces a notable regression in aesthetics. Departing from the distinctive vegan leather finish that characterized its predecessor, the device now features a glass fiber composition, which, while visually striking, compromises on grip and tactile comfort. The sleek yet slippery exterior raises concerns about handling and durability, with some users expressing dissatisfaction with the plasticky feel of the glass fiber segment. However, the introduction of the Silver Chrome color variant, retaining the beloved vegan leather finish, offers a glimmer of redemption for design-conscious consumers.
In conclusion, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra presents a compelling blend of innovation and refinement, with significant upgrades in camera technology, performance capabilities, and battery efficiency. While the design shift may polarize opinions among users, the device’s overall advancements position it as a noteworthy contender in the competitive landscape of flagship smartphones. As Xiaomi continues to push boundaries and redefine industry standards, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to technological excellence and consumer-centric innovation.