After Xiaomi and Leica’s in-depth presentation of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra at MWC 2025, I questioned my initial assessment of its camera. My review wasn’t negative, but their emphasis on its capabilities made me wonder if I had missed something. I decided to embark on a photographic journey through Barcelona to explore the camera’s potential anew.
Exploring Barcelona with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra
My initial review was conducted in familiar locations, limiting my creative exploration. Returning to Barcelona after years, exploring a new area with favorable weather, provided the perfect opportunity to reassess the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. The city’s changed landscape ignited a desire to capture its essence, a task perfectly suited for a capable camera.
A New Perspective
My previous familiarity with Barcelona had faded, and the city felt fresh and new. This sense of discovery amplified the desire to document my experience. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra, equipped with a versatile lens system, became my tool for capturing the city’s unique charm.
Capturing architectural details with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Experimenting with the Leica Authentic mode
As a non-professional photographer, I rely on a camera that is fast, versatile, and capable. Xiaomi’s claim that the 15 Ultra replicates a professional photographer’s lens kit proved true. The 23mm main lens and the 4.3x zoom (100mm equivalent) offered excellent flexibility. Experimenting with Leica Vibrant and Authentic modes, along with the Leica Black and White filter, further enhanced my creative process.
Unleashing Creativity
Capturing the vibrancy of Barcelona
A black and white capture using the Leica filter
In Barcelona, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra revealed its true potential. It became more than just a camera; it was a source of inspiration. The various filters and lenses encouraged experimentation with angles, framing, and subjects. This exploration transformed my photography from mere documentation to a creative pursuit. Despite having other flagship phones like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Nothing Phone 3a Pro, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra remained my preferred choice. Its unique blend of fun and considered features, largely due to Leica’s influence, sets it apart from competitors like Apple and Samsung.
Street photography with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra
Xiaomi’s understated approach to AI is another notable aspect. The 15 Ultra’s camera feels refreshingly “normal,” prioritizing the photographer’s vision over AI-driven enhancements. While some AI editing features are present, they aren’t the primary focus. Simple adjustments to contrast, saturation, and brightness were usually sufficient for achieving the desired aesthetic.
Further Exploration and Observations
Capturing the essence of Barcelona's streets
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra empowers creative expression. Its capabilities translate mental imagery into tangible photographs. This responsiveness sets it apart from other smartphone cameras. Its speed is also a significant advantage, allowing for quick capture of street scenes without disruption. Despite its strengths, some issues remain. The 4.3x zoom occasionally struggles with focus, and backlighting can lead to underexposure. Low-light performance at 4.3x also exhibits some haziness, especially noticeable when cropping. These are minor drawbacks, however, and the camera still earns a 9/10 rating.
Exploring different perspectives
While the 15 Ultra’s camera is excellent, it doesn’t quite match the distinct character of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. The Leica Vibrant and Authentic modes offer distinct image processing, but neither is definitively superior. The black and white filter, however, is exceptional, maintaining its setting even after closing the camera app. Its low-light performance, adding a pleasing grain while preserving detail, makes it a standout feature.
A Change of Heart
Capturing the city's atmosphere
Exploring Barcelona's urban landscape
A quiet moment in the city
Architectural details and textures
The play of light and shadow
A glimpse of daily life
My time in Barcelona with the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has shifted my perspective. Its capabilities extend beyond what a standard review can capture. It demands attention and a willingness to explore its potential. The “magic” Xiaomi promised exists, but it reveals itself through experimentation and adventure. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra also elevated my own photography. It pushed me beyond simple snapshots, encouraging me to capture my personal vision of the city. This active engagement is a rare quality in a smartphone camera.
The Xiaomi 15 Ultra in hand
A good camera should be technically proficient and inspire creativity. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra fulfills both criteria. While it may not surpass the Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera, my Barcelona experience unearthed the magic I initially thought was missing.
