Xiaomi and Leica launched the Xiaomi x Leica Optical Institute, a venture that aims to boost mobile imaging. This collaboration is a significant advancement in smartphone technology, merging optical expertise with digital imaging and artificial intelligence (AI).
The Xiaomi x Leica Optical Institute aims to set a new industry standard for optical performance in mobile devices, starting with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, introduced recently. The optical system within Xiaomi 14 Ultra represents the company’s latest collaborative landmark, destined to lead the next generation of mobile optical imaging as the top Summilux lenses in mobile to date.
“Through the Xiaomi x Leica Optical Institute, we will further leverage the respective strengths of both parties, continuously extend the boundaries of mobile imaging optical capabilities, and consistently lead the way in the mobile imaging era,” said William Lu, partner and president of Xiaomi Group.
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The focus of the institute is on four key technical areas:
1. designing compact yet precise optical lenses
2. optimizing computational photography
3. maintaining stringent lens quality standards
4. researching cutting-edge optoelectronic technology.
“By establishing the Xiaomi x Leica Optical Institute, we are poised to bring together top-tier teams from both sides within the field of optics,” said Matthias Harsch, CEO of Leica Camera AG. “Together, we are dedicated to spearheading a new era in mobile imaging optics, pushing the boundaries of mobile imaging, and forging an advanced mobile imaging optical system tailored to our contemporary era.”
Xiaomi’s R&D support includes the establishment of three state-of-the-art laboratories in Beijing, specializing in Camera Hardware, Imaging, and Image Quality Evaluation. These facilities, covering 2644m², will be among the largest and most advanced camera labs globally.
To achieve this goal, Xiaomi and Leica have invested significant resources and assembled a joint team of over 200 experts. Peter Karbe, the legendary optical designer behind the fourth-generation lenses from Leica including iconic designs like Noctilux and the APO series, will serve as Optical Expert. Zeng Xuezong, Senior Vice President of Xiaomi Group and President of the Xiaomi Mobile Phone Department, will serve as the Director. Yi Yan, Head of Xiaomi Group’s Software Technical Team, and Wang Xuanran, General Manager of Xiaomi Camera Department, will serve as Deputy Directors.