Xiaomi is expected to release its Mi 12S Ultra in China next week. Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun has confirmed that the next flagship smartphone will feature a camera module that uses Sony’s new 1-inch IMX989 sensor, beating Samsung and Apple.
- Mi 12S Ultra is the first device to use a smartphone-specific 1-inch sensor
- Xiaomi will officially release 12S, 12S Pro and 12S Ultra on July 4th
Sharp and Sony recently launched their first smartphones with an integrated 1-inch sensor. However, only now can devices take advantage of a 1-inch sensor developed specifically for smartphones.
Details about the Sony IMX989 are scarce. But it’s expected to be a 50MP sensor – the rest of its features are still unknown. Pixel binning will also be used, like Samsung’s 200 MP sensor. Xiaomi could also roll out new proprietary software tricks to allow its new sensor to take higher-quality photos.
Sony IMX989 sensor size comparison with iPhone 13 Pro Max sensor / © Xiaomi
Mi 12S Ultra spec sheet and release date
The Mi 12S Ultra, Mi 12S and 12S Pro are expected to be released in China on July 4th. Mi 12S Ultra specs include Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1, a quad-camera module, and up to 12GB of RAM. It is unclear whether the series will launch in the European market.