We Unbox the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica: Galaxy S26 Series Leaks, Week 3 in Review

In the rapidly evolving landscape of mobile technology, the third week of 2026 has delivered a seismic shift in the premium smartphone segment. As we navigate through the early months of the year, the anticipation surrounding flagship releases has reached a fever pitch. This week, our focus is split between two titans of the industry: the arrival of the highly anticipated Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica and the swirling, albeit cryptic, rumors surrounding the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 series. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, these developments represent the cutting edge of mobile imaging, processing power, and design philosophy.

At Magisk Modules, we do not merely observe these releases; we dissect them. Our commitment to the Android ecosystem extends from providing the most comprehensive repository for Magisk Modules to analyzing the hardware that powers these devices. The unboxing of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is not just a ceremonial event; it is a forensic examination of what happens when Chinese engineering prowess meets German optical heritage. Meanwhile, the leaks surrounding the Galaxy S26 series suggest that Samsung is preparing to counter with a strategy focused on AI integration and display dominance. As we delve into Week 3 of 2026, we provide a detailed review that covers every nuance of these devices, offering insights that go beyond surface-level specifications.

The Arrival: Unboxing the Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra does not arrive quietly. The retail packaging itself sets the tone for a device that aims to bridge the gap between a smartphone and a dedicated digital camera. Unlike the minimalist boxes of previous years, the packaging for the 17 Ultra is a statement piece. It features a textured finish with a dual-tone aesthetic that immediately pays homage to Leica’s iconic camera designs. When we lifted the lid, the first thing that greeted us was the device itself, resting in a molded tray that emphasizes the gravity of the hardware contained within.

The Comprehensive Retail Package

Xiaomi has made a bold decision to include a suite of accessories that many competitors have stripped away in the name of environmental concerns or cost-cutting. The retail box is a treasure trove for power users:

• The 100W HyperCharge Adapter: In an era where many flagships ship without a charger, the inclusion of a 100W brick is a significant value proposition. This proprietary charging technology promises to fill the massive battery in under 30 minutes, a critical feature for heavy users.
• Braided USB-A to USB-C Cable: The choice of a durable, braided cable ensures longevity. While USB-C is the standard, the cable provided is thick and capable of handling high data transfer rates and the high current required for fast charging.
• Official Xiaomi Case: A transparent, shock-absorbent case is included, allowing users to protect the device while showcasing its unique finish immediately.
• Metal Leica Lens Cap: Perhaps the most striking accessory is the machined aluminum lens cap designed for the camera island. This is not merely a prop; it physically covers the massive sensor array, protecting the delicate glass elements from scratches when the phone is not in use.
• Red Wrist Strap: Attaching to dedicated lugs on the frame, the red wrist strap mimics the accessories found on professional Leica cameras, reinforcing the device’s identity as a photography-first tool.
• Polishing Cloth: A microfiber cloth branded with the Leica logo ensures the lenses and screen remain spotless.

Design Philosophy: A Tribute to Analog

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s design is a masterclass in material selection. The rear panel features an exclusive dual-tone finish. The upper half utilizes a vegan leather texture that provides grip and warmth, while the lower half is a glossy ceramic-like glass. This split design is inspired by classic Leica rangefinders, specifically the M-series aesthetic.

The camera island is massive, dominating the upper third of the device. It is framed in polished chrome, giving it a jewelry-like quality. The inclusion of the Red Dot logo—a prestigious award for design excellence—is etched into the side frame, serving as a badge of honor for Xiaomi’s design team. However, the true innovation lies in the tactile experience of the device.

The Knurled Metal Frame

We have long criticized smartphones for feeling like slippery glass slabs. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra breaks this trend with a knurled metal frame. The texture is fine and diamond-patterned, offering exceptional grip. It reminds us of the grip on high-end audio equipment or precision tools. This is not just for show; it makes holding a large, heavy phone significantly more comfortable during long photography sessions.

The Mechanically-Rotating Control Ring

Situated around the camera module is the Control Ring. Unlike the touch-sensitive rings of the past, this is a fully mechanical, clicky dial that rotates with haptic feedback. It is not a software simulation; it is a physical gear mechanism. This ring serves multiple functions depending on the app being used. In the camera app, it acts as a zoom rocker or an aperture adjuster. In the gallery, it cycles through photos. In the browser, it scrolls. The tactile sensation of rotating this ring adds a layer of control that capacitive screens simply cannot replicate. It is a bold move toward bridging the gap between digital interfaces and analog controls.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra Camera System: The Leica Partnership Realized

The collaboration between Xiaomi and Leica has been evolving for several years, but the Xiaomi 17 Ultra represents the pinnacle of this partnership. It is not merely a branding exercise; the optics, color science, and software processing have been deeply integrated with Leica’s standards.

The Primary Sensor and Optics

The main sensor is a 1-inch type LYT-900 sensor, the largest currently available in a production smartphone. Paired with a Summilux lens (f/1.6 aperture), the light-gathering capabilities of this setup are extraordinary. In low-light conditions, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra captures images with a dynamic range that rivals dedicated mirrorless cameras. We observed that the lens coatings effectively reduce flare and ghosting, maintaining contrast in backlit scenarios.

Leica Color Profiles

The device ships with two distinct color modes: Leica Vibrant and Leica Authentic.

• Leica Vibrant: This mode pushes saturation and contrast, mimicking the look of Kodak film. It is punchy and social-media ready.
• Leica Authentic: This mode preserves the natural color palette with a slight desaturation and film-like grain. It is designed for purists who want the image to look as true-to-life as possible.

Variable Aperture Mechanism

The primary camera features a mechanical variable aperture, switching between f/1.6 and f/4.0. This hardware innovation allows for physical control over depth of field. At f/4.0, the sun becomes a starburst, and landscapes appear sharper across the frame. This is a feature rarely seen in smartphones and is a direct influence of Leica’s optical engineering.

Performance and Display: The Snapdragon Powerhouse

Under the hood, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 4, Qualcomm’s flagship chipset for 2026. This processor, built on a 3nm process, delivers staggering performance gains in both CPU and GPU tasks. Paired with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, the device handles multitasking and heavy gaming with absolute ease.

The Dragon Crystal Glass Display

The front of the device is protected by Xiaomi’s latest proprietary glass: Dragon Crystal Glass. In drop tests conducted by third parties, it has shown a 50% improvement in durability compared to previous generations. The display itself is a 6.73-inch LTPO AMOLED panel capable of a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate. The peak brightness hits 3200 nits, ensuring perfect visibility even under direct sunlight.

Battery Life and Charging

The 5000mAh battery is standard for a flagship, but the optimization provided by the new chipset extends the screen-on time significantly. We found that with moderate use, the device comfortably lasts a full day and a half. The 100W wired charging mentioned earlier is complemented by 80W wireless charging, a speed that makes overnight charging unnecessary.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Series Leaks: What We Know So Far

While the Xiaomi 17 Ultra dominates the headlines this week, the rumor mill regarding the Samsung Galaxy S26 series is churning aggressively. As we approach the latter half of 2026, leaks from supply chains and regulatory filings are beginning to paint a picture of Samsung’s next move.

Design Changes and Materials

Rumors suggest that Samsung is planning a significant design overhaul for the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The curved edges of previous models may be replaced with a completely flat display and a titanium frame with a matte finish to reduce fingerprints. The camera island is rumored to be redesigned into a “floating lens” array, where the sensors are housed in individual bumps rather than a single unified module.

The Exynos vs. Snapdragon Dilemma

There is intense speculation regarding the chipset. In the US and China, the S26 Ultra is expected to utilize the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 4 found in the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. However, in Europe and other markets, Samsung may reintroduce the Exynos 2600. Early benchmarks of the Exynos 2600 show promise, particularly in AI processing tasks, but efficiency remains a concern compared to the TSMC-manufactured Snapdragon chips.

Galaxy AI 2.0 and On-Device Processing

The focal point of the S26 series appears to be Samsung’s aggressive push into artificial intelligence. Leaks indicate “Galaxy AI 2.0,” a suite of tools that runs entirely on-device rather than relying on cloud processing. This includes real-time voice translation during calls, generative photo editing that rivals desktop software, and predictive battery management. Samsung aims to leverage the NPU (Neural Processing Unit) of the new chips to make these features instantaneous.

Camera Hardware Upgrades

Samsung is reportedly working on a new 200MP sensor (likely the ISOCELL HP7) with larger pixel sizes for improved low-light performance. The telephoto lens is also expected to see an upgrade, potentially moving to a 5x optical zoom with a larger sensor to compete with the periscope capabilities of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra. The challenge for Samsung will be to match the Leica-tuned color science that Xiaomi has perfected.

Comparative Analysis: Xiaomi 17 Ultra vs. The Phantom Galaxy S26

Drawing conclusions based on a finalized device (Xiaomi) versus a leaked prototype (Samsung) is speculative, but we can extrapolate based on current trends.

Photography: Leica Authenticity vs. Samsung Versatility

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra relies heavily on its massive 1-inch sensor and mechanical aperture for a distinct photographic signature. It produces images with a depth and texture that is hard to replicate. The Control Ring adds a level of manual control that appeals to photographers. Conversely, the Galaxy S26 series is expected to double down on computational photography. Samsung’s advantage has always been versatility—sharpening details and offering a wider array of lenses. If the leaks hold true, the S26 Ultra will be a computational monster, while the Xiaomi 17 Ultra is a hardware-centric beast.

User Experience: Analog Tactility vs. AI Fluidity

The physical interaction with the Xiaomi 17 Ultra—through the knurled frame and mechanical ring—provides a grounding experience that many users crave in a touch-screen world. It feels like a tool. The Galaxy S26, based on Samsung’s history, will likely focus on software fluidity and AI integration. The experience will be seamless, predictive, and heavily reliant on the screen.

Display and Build Quality

Both devices are utilizing the absolute best display panels available in 2026. However, Xiaomi’s use of Dragon Crystal Glass and the dual-tone design offers a unique aesthetic. Samsung’s potential move to a flat titanium frame and matte glass suggests a more utilitarian, industrial design. It will be a battle between the warm, classic appeal of the Xiaomi and the cool, futuristic look of the Samsung.

Market Implications and Industry Trends

The release of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the leaks surrounding the Galaxy S26 series signal a major shift in the smartphone industry for 2026.

The Return of Physical Controls

Xiaomi’s decision to include a mechanical Control Ring reflects a growing demand for tactile feedback. As phones become increasingly similar in terms of screen real estate and processing power, the differentiating factor is becoming the feel of the device. We expect other manufacturers to follow suit, potentially reintroducing physical shutter buttons or scroll wheels in future iterations.

The “Camera First” Philosophy

The sheer size of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s camera module and the inclusion of professional accessories like the lens cap reinforce the trend of smartphones replacing compact cameras. The hardware is now at a point of diminishing returns regarding megapixels, so manufacturers are focusing on sensor size, optics, and color science. The Leica partnership validates this approach, offering a branded assurance of quality that consumers trust.

AI as the New Battleground

Samsung’s focus on Galaxy AI 2.0 indicates that the software war is moving from UI design to artificial intelligence. In 2026, the “smart” in smartphone refers to the onboard intelligence. The ability to process complex algorithms locally without latency will define the user experience. Xiaomi has integrated AI into its HyperOS (the successor to MIUI), but Samsung is betting the farm on it being the central pillar of the S26 series.

Week 3 in Review: The Verdict on 2026’s Early Leaders

As we close out the third week of 2026, the landscape is clear. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica is a realized vision of what a photography-centric smartphone should be. It is a bold, unapologetic device that prioritizes hardware innovation and tactile design. From the unboxing experience with its premium accessories to the mechanical Control Ring, it feels like a luxury instrument.

On the other hand, the Galaxy S26 series leaks paint a picture of a software-driven powerhouse. Samsung is preparing to fight with intelligence and integration, aiming to make the smartphone an extension of the user’s cognitive process through AI.

For our audience at Magisk Modules, the arrival of these devices opens up new avenues for customization. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s unique hardware capabilities, particularly the camera system, present exciting opportunities for module developers. Whether it is unlocking advanced camera features, tweaking the UI to utilize the Control Ring in third-party apps, or optimizing battery performance for the new 3nm chipset, the modding community will be vital in unlocking the full potential of these flagships.

As we continue to test the Xiaomi 17 Ultra in real-world scenarios, the initial impression is overwhelmingly positive. It is a device that dares to be different in a market of homogenized slabs. While the Samsung Galaxy S26 is still shrouded in mystery, its impending arrival ensures that competition remains fierce. In Week 3 of 2026, the winner is the consumer, who is treated to a level of innovation and choice that is unprecedented in the history of mobile technology. We will keep you updated as more details emerge and as we dive deeper into the software capabilities of these devices on Magisk Module Repository.

The Role of Customization in New Flagships

As we analyze the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and anticipate the Galaxy S26, the potential for user customization remains a core discussion. These devices ship with highly customized operating systems (HyperOS and One UI respectively), but the true power lies in root-level access. The high-performance chipsets and advanced hardware sensors provide a rich playground for developers.

For users looking to push these devices to their absolute limits, the Magisk Module Repository is the essential destination. As we move through 2026, we expect modules to emerge that specifically target the Xiaomi 17 Ultra’s Control Ring, allowing it to function across the entire Android ecosystem, not just the native camera app. Furthermore, modules that optimize the thermal management of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 4 will be crucial for gamers looking to sustain peak performance without throttling.

The integration of Leica’s imaging algorithms within the Xiaomi 17 Ultra also opens the door for potential modding. While the hardware is proprietary, software tweaks that adjust the post-processing pipeline could offer enthusiasts even more control over the final image output. Similarly, as the Galaxy S26 series launches, modules that unlock hidden AI features or optimize battery curves will likely be in high demand.

We at Magisk Modules are committed to staying ahead of these trends. Our repository is constantly updated to ensure that as soon as new flagship devices hit the market, the tools to customize them are available. The synergy between high-end hardware and open-source software is what makes the Android ecosystem unique. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the upcoming Galaxy S26 represent the pinnacle of hardware engineering, and we provide the software keys to unlock their full potential.

Final Thoughts on Week 3

This week has been defined by the tangible reality of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and the speculative excitement of the Galaxy S26. The unboxing experience of the Xiaomi device was a reminder that premium packaging and included accessories still matter to consumers. The tactile feedback of the knurled metal frame and the mechanical ring provides a sensory experience that digital interfaces cannot replicate. It is a device that feels expensive and well-crafted.

Meanwhile, the leaks surrounding the Galaxy S26 series highlight the industry’s trajectory toward artificial intelligence. Samsung is betting that users want a phone that anticipates their needs, translates their conversations, and edits their photos with a simple voice command. This is a different approach than Xiaomi’s hardware-first philosophy, but both aim to solve the same problem: how to make the smartphone an indispensable tool for modern life.

As we look toward the rest of 2026, the competition between these two giants will likely define the standards for the entire industry. Whether it is through the mechanical precision of the Xiaomi 17 Ultra or the AI-driven fluidity of the Galaxy S26, users are in for a treat. We will continue to monitor the availability of these devices and the subsequent development of custom software. Stay tuned to Magisk Modules for the latest updates, reviews, and modding guides as the year progresses.

The third week of the year is often a predictor of the trends