Just ahead of MWC 2024, Xiaomi launched the Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Ultra to a global audience and I got to spend a little time with the latter. Not a lot of products live up to the original meaning of the word Ultra (“beyond”), but I will say the Xiaomi 14 Ultra goes beyond what most people would expect or even want… at least when it comes to cameras.
It was ultra-obvious from Xiaomi’s press briefing that the company wants the Xiaomi 14 Ultra conversation to revolve around its video abilities. The event itself was held at an actual movie studio outside of Barcelona, complete with a camera dolly, sets, professional lighting, and lots of other expensive pro-grade equipment. The message was clear: the Xiaomi 14 Ultra can offer users many pro-level features, without the cost, bulk, or complexity normally associated with professional cameras.