Launch report · Xiaomi
Xiaomi 12S Ultra: The 1-inch-sensor Leica original that started the camera-phone arms race.
SpecEagle Editorial·Jul 2022·$920·Score 84/100
12S Ultra was the proof of concept the whole industry copied: a true 1-inch Sony IMX989 with real Leica processing, in a phone. Three years on its photos still hold up against newer flagships, which is the highest praise a camera phone can earn. Collectors and photographers seek it out; everyone else moved to a supported successor.
Key specs at launch
Display
6.73" LTPO AMOLED 120 Hz
Chipset
Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1
Memory
12 GB · 256 GB
Main cam
50 MP · 1.0" · Leica
Battery
4,860 mAh
Weight
225 g
What stands out
- First mainstream 1-inch sensor — still a benchmark for depth and low light.
- Genuine Leica co-engineering, dual film looks.
- 5× periscope + 3.2× tele.
- TSMC-built 8+ Gen 1 runs cool.
What to watch
- Discontinued — China-only at launch, no global model.
- Heavy 225 g with a big camera hump.
- Software support has ended.
- QHD+ at 120 Hz drains the modest battery.
The phone it has to beat
Nubia Red Magic 9 Pro
$649 · score 89/100