In addition to its Xiaomi 15, Xiaomi Pad 7 and their accessories, Xiaomi took advantage of MWC 2025 to unveil a prototype of a modular smartphone camera that could give a glimpse of the future of mobile photography. The concept is based on a removable lens that magnetically attaches to a smartphone. We got our hands on it and let you know what we think.
A removable photo module to improve the quality d’image
© Gabriel Manceau / 01net
The camera module attaches magnetically and seems securely attached. Once the smartphone screen is turned on, it is configured by default on the phone's camera block, but a simple selection on the photo application allows you to switch to the magnetic module. In manual mode, it is possible to focus at using the ring on the removable module, as you would on a conventional camera.
The idea of a modular sensor is not new, but Xiaomi is exploring an approach that combines a larger sensor and a dedicated lens. The choice of Micro 4/3 offers better light capture than a conventional smartphone sensor, which could improve low-light rendering and depth of field. The 35mm f/1.4 lens also provides more control, especially for portraits and scenes requiring a more pronounced bokeh effect.
A wireless connection for fast data transfer
© Gabriel Manceau / 01net
Xiaomi relies on LaserLink Communication technology to connect the module to the smartphone. Unlike a wired or Bluetooth system, this optical solution promises fast image transfer without noticeable latency, which is an important argument for photo enthusiasts who would be ready to leave their camera for this hybrid model.
After our few minutes of handling, the concept seemed to reassure us about its potential. Many questions obviously remain unanswered, such as the potential cost that such a product could represent, its compatibility with other models (it worked here on a Xiaomi 15) and the real interest for the general public. Xiaomi has not yet specified whether this technology will result in a commercial product, but it illustrates the desire manufacturer to bring smartphone performance even closer to that of dedicated cameras.
0 Comments