Xiaomi Unveils Modular Micro Four Thirds Camera System For Smartphones

Xiaomi has introduced a cool concept at MWC 2025: the Xiaomi Optical Modular System, a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera and lens combination that magnetically attaches to the back of a prototype Xiaomi 15 smartphone. This innovative system features a 100MP MFT sensor, dubbed the Light Fusion X, which is larger than the 1-inch sensor found in the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. The MFT sensor, with a 2x crop factor (compared to the 2.7x crop of 1-inch sensors), offers superior light-gathering capabilities and depth of field, rivaling sensors used in high-end mirrorless cameras from brands like Olympus and Panasonic.

The modular system, which resembles realme’s interchangeable lens concept, includes a compact 35mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.4, a 6G aspherical lens assembly, and a close focus distance of 20cm. It supports both autofocus and manual focus, along with face recognition. The lens is powered via pogo pins and a magnetic ring mount, similar to Apple’s MagSafe, eliminating the need for an additional battery.

Data transfer between the lens and phone is facilitated by Xiaomi’s Laserlink Communication, which uses a near-infrared laser to transmit raw image data for processing via Xiaomi’s computational photography system.

The design is sleek and premium, with a smooth focus ring and a Leica-like aesthetic, though Xiaomi has not confirmed any collaboration with its usual lens partners. The lens integrates seamlessly with the phone’s Pro mode, offering a dedicated user interface. Despite its polished appearance, Xiaomi has not disclosed whether this concept will reach the market or its potential price. The prototype uses a custom Xiaomi 15, not the commercially available model.

Similar concepts, such as Sony’s QX-10 and QX-100 for Xperia phones and the Alice Camera for iPhones, have been attempted before but with limited success. Xiaomi’s system, however, appears more refined and sophisticated, positioning it as a promising advancement in mobile photography.

But Xiaomi’s system has some drawbacks, one of the main ones being compatibility. While the Sony QX10 and QX100 were “universal”, meaning users could attach them to virtually any smartphone, Xiaomi’s module, in contrast, is limited to specific phones, therefore, restricting its potential adoption and limiting market penetration, since users that don’t have Xiaomi phones will not be able to use it.

Xiaomi’s Modular Optical System advances modular smartphone photography by addressing past challenges like connectivity and sensor limitations. While its current compatibility is limited to a custom Xiaomi 15 prototype, expanding support could make it a game-changer.

Though its future remains uncertain, Xiaomi’s refined approach represents a promising step forward in mobile imaging innovation. If priced competitively, it could appeal to photography enthusiasts seeking professional-grade capabilities in a smartphone-compatible format.

Filed in Cellphones >Photo-Video. Read more about Accessories, MWC, MWC 2025 and Xiaomi.