Hasselblad X2D Mark II camera rumors started after the FCC registration HB 722, which has been surfaced by rumor mill in the past. Rumor mills suggest it is actually a potential upgrade or update to the existing flagship X2D 100C. The X2D 100C was released back in 2022, and it is due for an update.
This post was updated on March 18 – 2025
We now have confirmation that the announcement of Hasselblad X2D Mark II shipping will start in June 2025 and Official ANNOUNCEMENT WILL HAPPEN on APRIL 2025. thenewcamera team
Hasselblad X2D II Shipping in June 2025
The camera is expected to officially arrive in April 2025 and the shipping will start on June 2025. The camera was registered back in December 2024, and as per the FCC rules and regulations, the external photos and the manuals of the camera remain withheld for 180 days. So it suggests the public reveal will be done in June 2025. So that’s the month when Hasselblad will be obviously announcing the X2D Mark II Camera.
X2D 100C a Photographer’s Dream Camera
Now, what we have already seen in the predecessor, the X2D 100C, is a 100-megapixel BSI CMOS sensorpaired with 7 stops of built-in sensor-shift image stabilization and a 1 terabyte internal SSD drive, and it has been loved by professionals and Hasselblad users out there. But the autofocus speed and the video capabilities were the two major issues associated with the first generation of the X2D 100C camera.
Now, we expect the upcoming X2D Mark II camera will address those gaps and upsthe overall performance of the entire series to the next level.
Hasselblad X2D Mark II – The Next Evolution
The X2D Mark II is kind of the next evolution of the existing and popular X2D 100C. It has been loved by professionals. Now, Hasselblad is in the works to introduce a new camera. Let’s discuss the possible set of core specifications that we may see inside this camera.
What We Are Expecting in the Upcoming X2D II Camera
The camera is likely to use the same 100-megapixel sensor with 16-bit color depth and 15 stops of dynamic range.
Introduction of a new AI-based autofocus algorithm to upscale the overall tracking performance of the camera. The 294 autofocus zones are expected to remain the same.
Hasselblad will use the same image stabilization mechanism that we have already witnessed in the X2D. The five-axis 7 stops IBIS was a game changer in the X2D and loved by professionals. The same 7 stops of IBIS performance is expected in the upcoming X2D Mark II.
Image processor is the key, and we are expecting the introduction of a next-generation processor to boost the overall responsiveness of the camera, reduce lag (specifically visible in the EVF), and handle data transfer faster with the sensor. That will lead to a faster continuous shooting speed and the possibility to record 4K video from this camera. So if they introduce a new image processor, for sure, we will see a major improvement in the overall core specs of the camera.
We all know it is a Photographers camera, but due to the increasing demand for Videos among MF format users and to give a tough competition to GFX series cameras, the X200D Mark II is the best platform to introduce the Introduction of 4k 30 fps 10-bit Video, with H Log support.
The easiest upgrade they can do isto increase the storage from 1 terabyte to 2 terabytes SSD. So we are expecting a kind of a storage update in this camera too.
Body and Design: Iconic Scandinavian design needs minor tweaks. The introduction of a larger handgrip is much needed. Let’s hope for the best.
Conclusion
These Expected core specifications are more than enough to set the upcoming Hasselblad X2D Mark II camera apart from its predecessor.
One more thing I would love to add—Hasselblad users actually loved the Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution (HNCS) that decodes 16 BIT images perfectly with its true color tones, which was introduced in the original X2D 100C. And we would love to see it again in the upcoming X2D Mark II camera.
The X2D 100C was a masterpiece for still shooters, but it still has a lot of room for improvement, which includes the introduction of VIDEO mode, speed, autofocus performance, and overall versatility. The X2D Mark II camera could be Hasselblad’s answer to those critiques, blending its signature 16-bit image quality. We would love to witness how Hasselblad processes the upcoming medium-format camera’s specifications to the next level.
Article Update Log: The article “Hasselblad X2D II Coming on June 2025 – Latest Rumors and Updates” was first published by thenewcamera.com team on March 13th, 2025
If you’re into professional content creation or cinematography, then you have to take care of the Rolling shutter in your camera. Let’s talk about Panasonic’s Lumix S1R II, a camera packed with versatile modes and high-resolution potential. However, since the camera uses the 44.3MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor, it’s a traditional sensor with a 25ms readout speed.
The question isn’t just “How bad is it?” but “How can you make it work for you?” In a recent hands-on test done by Tech Through the Lens channel and Gerlad Undone, they did a really extensive and very useful test, let’s find out the important details of the test
Beyond the Numbers: What Does Rolling Shutter Really Mean?
STacked vs Non-Stacked vs Global Shutter Sensor – We all know when we are working with stacked CMOS sensors we do not have to worry that much, that’s the reason why professional camera makers like RED mostly use Global shutter sensors. But, ARRI ALEXA cameras, including models like the ALEXA 35 and ALEXA Mini LF, primarily use rolling shutter technology, not global shutter. While ARRI is known for its high-quality image sensors, they currently lack a cinema camera with a global shutter, but thats a comletely different set of topic.
Average Sensor Readout Speed Table
Sensor Type
Typical Readout Speed Range
Notes & Examples
BSI CMOS
15–40 ms (1/50–1/25 sec)
Common in mid-tier cameras. Faster than traditional CMOS but slower than stacked designs. Sony A7 IV has a sensor readout speed of 26.8 milliseconds
Stacked CMOS
5–15 ms (1/200–1/66 sec)
Significantly faster due to integrated memory and processing. Example: Sony A1 (~4.8 ms at 50MP). Z9’s readout is 4ms.
Global Shutter CMOS
<1–5 ms (1/1000–1/200 sec)
Captures all pixels simultaneously, eliminating rolling shutter. Example: RED raptor, komodo, Sony A9 III (~1 ms or less, estimated), industrial sensors like Sony Pregius (~2–3 ms).
Lumix S1R II Sensor Readout speed
The Lumix S1R II’s wide range of shooting modes enables variable writing speed in the camera, the best part is now we have detailed information of the readout speed of each mode summarized in the table below
Panasonic S1R II Sensor Readout Speed Table
Mode/Resolution
Estimated Readout Speed
Notes
Open Gate (6.4K, DRE On)
~23 ms (1/43 sec)
“sloppy” at 23 ms, typical for high-res BSI CMOS mode.
4K 48p
~15 ms (1/66 sec)
significant jump to 15 ms with an 11% crop, faster readout mode. Since the readout pattern changed due to crop
4K 24p
~23–25 ms (1/43–1/40 sec)
Estimated based on slower baseline BSI CMOS performance (similar to Open Gate without crop trick).
4K 120p
~10–12 ms (1/100–1/83 sec)
Estimated as the fastest rolling shutter mode, but subsampled with trade-offs in quality.
8K 30p
~25–30 ms (1/40–1/33 sec)
Estimated for full-sensor 8K; slower due to higher data load, aligned with BSI CMOS limits.
Open Gate (8.1K, Future)
~25–30 ms (1/40–1/33 sec)
Projected based on 8K performance; firmware update expected to maintain similar readout.
Stills (44.3MP, Electronic)
~20–25 ms (1/50–1/40 sec)
(~1/50 sec) and typical BSI CMOS behavior for high-res stills.
The S1R II’s rolling shutter varies wildly depending on how you configure it, with this table we wanted to give shooters a practical sense of what’s usable—and what’s not.
The 48p Hack: Speed Without Sacrifice
That’s the best part of the test, during the test while Shooting in 4K or 5.9K at 48p (with the intention of dropping it onto a 24p timeline) unlocks a hidden gem. Yes, The camera does an 11% Crop in 16:9 recoding mode due to the crop, when the sensor readout area becomes less and maybe the camera is using slightly different readout pattern, a read speed that goes from 23ms to mind whopping 15ms. And there is no compromise with the AF system of the S1R Mark II camera in 4k 48p mode.
The camera is still able to deliver 11.9 stops of dynamic range in 4k 48p mode, don’t forget to keep on the Dynamic Range Expansion (DRE) while recording.
Use a 360-degree shutter, cut half the frames in editing, and you get a fast mode that avoids rolling shutter problems without ruining the picture. For filmmakers who care more about smooth motion than a full frame, this trick could be a big win.
Panasonic S1R II – 8k & 4k 120fps mode
The Panasonic S1R Mark II camera records 8K video recording internally at up to 30fps in 10-bit H.265 with 14 stops of dynamic range, well I think Camera processing power touches its limit while shooting 8K and that’s why subject detection of the camera gets disabled, A firmware update (expected later in 2025) that will address several issues regarding performance update. BTW, in almost the same price range we have Nikon Z8, was released back in May 2023, can record 8K 60fps internally with full-time AI AF in 12-bit N-RAW at a data rate of 722.5 MB/s.
Meanwhile, 4K 120p mode of the Camera doesn’t show any rolling shutter issues while recording high-speed videos due to its linked skipping readout mode that enables faster readout at a Higher Frame rate, but exposure isn’t proper, a significant amount of 1.5x crop, and since the processor is soaked up in processing 4k 120fps video the AF performance degrade. We are very sure in the upcoming Nov 2025 update Panasonic will fix most of the issues.
The Verdict: A Camera of Choices
The Panasonic S1R Mark II detailed test showed us how we can use this camera to its maximum potential, and during the entire test, the Camera never shut down due to overheating issues. but if you are confused between the Nikon Z8 OR Panasonic S1R II, we have done a short comparison that will help u decide which camera u should get between the two. So, overall the camera is made for professionals, kudos to Panasonic for putting their best innovation in the S line of Full-frame cameras.
Best Budget Wildlife Lenses for Sony E-Mount in 2025: Native and Third-Party Options: Sony mirrorless cameras have actually revolutionized wildlife photography with their innovation, specifically in autofocus mechanisms, as well as lightweight design and the most important and expensive lens ecosystem, which is continuously expanding. So, if you shoot with full-frame cameras like the Sony Alpha A1, it’s kind of a powerhouse, or an APS-C camera like the Sony A6700, finding the right lens on a budget is really a tough job. Breaking a bank account while buying your favorite lenses is not always a good idea. So, we have selected the best budget wildlife lenses for Sony E-Mount that include Sony native offerings as well as the best third-party lens options for Sony E-Mount from Sigma, Tamron, and more. All these are updated for 2025. The lenses that we have selected are the best in their focal length and give you the maximum reach possible.
Wildlife photography generally demands longer focal length lenses. If you own a 300mm lens, then you can shoot sunset, sunrise, and big animals like elephants or hippopotamuses perfectly. But if you want to shoot birds or small animals, then either they have to be very close to you, or you have to buy lenses like 500mm or more. However, you don’t need to spend $10,000 on getting a Sony FE 600mm F4 GM lens to get professional-level results. What we have done is prioritized affordability as well as the performance of a lens, starting with lightweight options that fit the budget, like the Tamron 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 RXD, the lightest telephoto lens under $600. So, that’s just one example. Let’s dive into the top and best lenses for 2025, covering both full-frame and APS-C mounts.
Why Choose a Budget Wildlife Lens for Sony E-Mount?
Sony E-Mount system is heaven for wildlife photographers, thanks to the introduction of camera bodies with AI autofocus systems, starting from base models like the Sony A6700. Cameras with a 1.5x crop factor are perfectly fit for wildlife photography as well as bird photography since they give you extra reach. These lenses strike a balance between cost and capability, making them ideal for beginners or anyone looking to upgrade from the standard kit lens. So, here’s what to look for before picking your next lens:
Focal Length: 300mm+ for capturing large animals, and 500mm+ for bird photography.
Aperture: A wider aperture is always better (f/2.8–f/6.3) for low-light shooting, though budget options often lean toward f/5.6–f/6.7.
Stabilization: Always look for Optical SteadyShot (OSS) or in-body stabilization (IBIS) helps with handheld shots.
Weather Sealing: Essential for outdoor shoots in unpredictable conditions.
Price: Pocket-friendly
1. Top Budget Wildlife Lenses for Sony E-Mount – Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS
Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS is the gold standard for budget-conscious Sony wildlife photography shooters. This lens offers an impressive 200 to 600mm zoom range, which makes it perfect for large animals like elephants and hippopotamuses. If you are using APS-C cameras like the Sony a6700, you can also do bird photography flawlessly since the equivalent focal length you will be getting is approximately 900mm.
And since it’s a Sony lens, it also supports teleconverters like 1.4x and 2x. So, if you are using a 1.4x teleconverter on your APS-C camera, and since it’s a full-frame lens, the quality will remain the same, and you will get additional reach up to 1260mm while using the 1.4x teleconverter.
Now, let’s talk about the lens. At $1,998, it’s a steal deal compared to Sony’s other G Master prime lenses. Its internal zooming mechanism and very effective stabilization help you shoot handheld images perfectly. Although it’s not that lightweight to carry all day, you should keep a hybrid monopod along with you.
Pros:
Exceptional reach with teleconverter compatibility (1.4x or 2.0x).
Fast, silent autofocus powered by Sony’s Direct Drive SSM.
Optical SteadyShot with three modes for static or panning shots.
Weather-sealed for rugged outdoor use.
Cons:
Variable aperture narrows to f/6.3 at 600mm, limiting low-light performance.
Heavy for all-day carry without a tripod.
Why It’s Great:
With bodies like the Sony a6700, you get a built-in IBIS mechanism, and when paired with this lens, you get very smooth and stable footage and snaps, even when shooting handheld. At the same time, the focal length jumps to 300 to 900mm, which is an insane focal length for an under-$2000 price range.
2. Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports: Best Affordable Zoom Lens for Wildlife & Sports Photography
Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS Sports Price: ~$1,499 [ B&H Store and Amazon.com ] Focal Length: 150-600mm Aperture: f/5–6.3 Weight: 2,100g (74.1 oz) Best For: Maximum reach on a budget
Sigma 150-600 is a third-party powerhouse lens that has been considered a direct competitor to the Sony FE 200-600mm at a lower price. Technically, it’s one of the best third-party lenses available to date. If you use it on your APS-C body, the equivalent focal length that you will be getting is 225 to 900mm.
Pros:
Longest 600mm reach with robust image stabilization
Fast autofocus and four stops of optical image stabilization even at the tele end
Durable, weather-sealed build
Very sharp at the center throughout the zoom range when used on an APS-C body
Cons:
We are not able to use teleconverters with third party lenses
Heavy and bulky for handheld use
Softer edges at 600mm when used with a full-frame sensor
Why It’s Great:
For just $1,499, you are getting an amazing lens at this price point, and literally, there is no competition for the Sigma 150-600mm at this price with its optical performance, making it a top-budget choice for distant subjects like raptors or safari animals.
3. Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 : Best Budget Super-Telephoto Lens by Tamron for Sony E-Mount
Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di III VC VXD Price: ~$1,199 [ B&H Store and Amazon.com ] Focal Length: 150-500mm Aperture: f/5–6.7 Weight: 1,725g (60.8 oz) Best For: Lightweight full-frame option, budget buyers
Tamron’s 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di III VC VXD, I think this is the best lens available at this focal length and at this price point, which is approximately $1,200 or less sometimes during deals and offers. This is one of the most reasonably priced super telephoto zoom lenses for the Sony mount, and it is more compact and easy to carry compared to the Sony 200-600mm. Although Sony is always number one with its native lenses, specifically when we are talking about lenses like the 200-600mm that support teleconverters, as well as its OIS being very, very effective. So, if you are not able to spend $2,000 on buying the Sony 200-600mm lens, then the next best investment in the low-budget range is the Tamron 150-500mm.
Pros:
It’s the lightest super telephoto lens with a very effective optical image stabilizer
Newly developed VXD autofocus motors act very fast
Sharp across the zoom range with pleasing bokeh
Weather-sealed with a zoom lock for travel
Cons:
No teleconverter support (Sony restriction on third-party lenses)
Slightly softer edges at 500mm compared to Sony G lenses
Why It’s Great:
For under $1,200, you get 150-500mm (225-750mm on APS-C), making it a fantastic budget pick for wildlife enthusiasts who prioritize portability over absolute reach.
4. Best Budget 300mm Lens? Tamron 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 for Sony APS-C & Full-Frame
Best For: Lightest full-frame telephoto under $600, budget portability
This is the cheapest third-party 300mm zoom lens available for Sony E-mount. The RXD motors offer fast autofocus, and while using an APS-C sensor-based camera, you get a range of up to 450mm. It’s a very good lens for wildlife photography, especially considering the price we have to pay and the focal range that we are getting with this lens. But at the same time, there is no optical image stabilization. If we are using this lens with an a6700 camera, then there is no need to worry. Although, for wildlife photography, I always recommend having a hybrid monopod with you to get super stable and sharp shots.
Pros:
Featherlight at 545g—ideal for handheld shooting with IBIS bodies
Affordable at $550, often dipping lower during sales
Weather-sealed for outdoor reliability
Sharp center performance with fast RXD autofocus
Cons:
No optical stabilization (relies on IBIS)
Softer edges at 300mm when used with full-frame sensors
Why It’s Great:
Wildlife shooters who are looking for great reach on a budget with their APS-C or full-frame bodies will find this the best budget wildlife photography lens made by Tamron for Sony E-mount. On APS-C, its 450mm equivalent rivals pricier lenses, making it a top budget pick for casual wildlife photography.
5. Cheapest Wildlife Lens for Sony APS-C? Sony E 55-210mm
The cheapest lens for Sony E-mount, designed for entry-level APS-C users. This lens typically comes with the camera as part of a dual kit lens setup, but yes, you can also use this lens for shooting sunsets, sunrises, and birds sitting next to your window in a tree, provided they are in a location that allows for this. The lens is the cheapest wildlife photography lens available for Sony E-mount, offering a maximum equivalent reach of up to 315mm and is designed for APS-C sensors only. It’s an ideal deal for entry-level wildlife photography users.
Pros:
Dirt-cheap price under $300
Lightweight and portable
OIS SteadyShot for steady shots
Decent sharpness in good light
Cons:
Narrow aperture limits low-light use
Incompatible with full-frame bodies
Why It’s Great:
Pair it with an APS-C body for a 315mm reach—perfect for backyard birds or local parks on a shoestring budget.
Sony Native vs.Third-Party: Which Should You Choose?
Sony mid-range lenses are, of course, of superior quality, specifically the G-series lenses, which are custom-tailored for performing seamlessly with Sony’s autofocus system. All these lenses support teleconverters, which is highly essential for wildlife photography. Other than that, basic lenses also offer OIS integration and fast AF motors. If your pocket allows, always go with the Sony native lenses.
Third-party lenses are wonderful if you see their price tag. They are sometimes almost half the price of Sony lenses of the same focal length, and in wildlife photography, the most important thing is the reach—aka the range you are getting from your telephoto lens. Yes, there are some performance limitations, like not being able to use teleconverters, and some telephoto lenses exhibit soft corners at the tele-end when used with a full-frame sensor. But again, if you are limited to a certain budget, the best option is to buy third-party lens options and use an APS-C body like the Sony a6700 camera.
Verdict: If you prioritize autofocus speed and teleconverter options, go native. For budget savings and portability—like the Tamron 70-300mm’s lightweight edge—third-party lenses are unbeatable.
Budget Wildlife Photography Tips for Sony E-Mount Users
Use of an APS-C body is highly recommended if you are into wildlife photography. It will not only boost your focal length by 1.5x but also reduce soft corner issues to a great extent by using the sharper center portion of the lens.
Always have a hybrid monopod with you. Heavy lenses like the Sigma 150-600mm or Sony 200-600mm need the support of a very strong body or a hybrid monopod/tripod, so decide accordingly.
Budget wildlife photography generally involves lenses with an aperture range of around f/5.6 to f/6.3, so try to position your subjects in direct sunlight.
We now have software like Gigapixel AI at our disposal, along with significant advancements in recent Photoshop and Lightroom editions. So, try to learn the latest editing techniques to stay updated with the times.
Final Thoughts: The Best Budget Wildlife Lens for You
Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS is our top budget pick for its amazing reach, versatility, native performance, and the ability to use a teleconverter—all these features under $2000. Now, the next best lens on our list is the Tamron 150-500mm F5-6.7 Di III VC VXD at $1,199 due to its portability and price, although it has 100mm less reach than the Sony 200-600mm and is not compatible with teleconverters.
And finally, the best entry-level lens, the Tamron 70-300mm F4.5-6.3 Di III RXD, steals the show as the lightest full-frame telephoto under $600. Now, if you are looking for some kind of super budget lens, then yes, you can start with the Sony E 55-210mm F4.5-6.3 OSS at $298.
So, from this article, it is very clear that no matter what your budget is or which camera body you are using, the lenses we have selected prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune or break your bank to capture breathtaking wildlife shots. Also, let me know which one is your favorite—drop a comment, share this article with your wildlife photography friends, and share your journey with us!
We’re are really thrilled to announce that New Camera (thenewcamera.com) has been recognized as one of the Top 90 Camera Blogs by FeedSpot, and we’re proud to be ranked 4th! This achievement reflects our commitment to delivering top-notch camera news, comparison, and buying guides to our readers.
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Panasonic Camera Registrations in 2025 – Upcoming Camera Model codes of Panasonic full-frame and Micro four third format cameras, take a look below at the key points of the article
Key points of the article
From the beginning of the year, Panasonic has registered approximately four cameras in the wireless application agency P2307, P2303A, P2305A, and P2306A
After doing a little bit of research, we have found that the Panasonic P2303A could be the upcoming Panasonic S1H Mark II camera. The registered model codes Panasonic P2305A and P2306A are less certain in terms of being a full-frame camera, so it can be any of the models, including the Lumix LX100 Mark III or a G series model.
Panasonic P2303A – The Panasonic S1 H II
Panasonic registered the P2303AA camera in DEC 2024. It is believed that the 2303A is the S1H Mark II camera, the camera is dedicated to SPEED and not Resolution, just like we have the A7 series in Sony, and we have already seen the high-resolution sensor update from Panasonic the S1R II recently, now it is time for the S1 H Mark II.
Panasonic Confirms they are working on S1H Mark II
Now, in a recent post, we have published an acknowledgment from the Panasonic developer team that they are working on the S1H Mark II camera. After the announcement of the Panasonic S1R Mark II, the next full-frame camera to be announced is the S1H Mark II.
Panasonic P2306A and P2305A – LX100 III and more…
We are confirmed by the nature of product registration that both of the model codes are mentioned. the P2306A and the P2305A are MFT sensor-based updates, potentially one of them is the LX100 Mark II successor, the LX100 III camera expected to feature 25.2MP Live HYBRID MOS Micro Four Thirds Sensor from the G9 Mark II & GH7 camera. The other model could be a major update to the Panasonic entry-level line, the G100 II, so we have a huge range of possibilities let’s cross our fingers and wait for good news.
Here is a table summarizing the Panasonic camera model codes based on the provided information:
Model Code
Camera Model
Sensor Type
Status
Expected Features / Notes
P2307
Panasonic S1R Mark II
44.3MP Full-Frame
Announced
High-resolution full-frame camera
P2303A
Panasonic S1H Mark II
24MP Full-Frame
Confirmed
High-end video-centric full-frame camera
P2305A
Panasonic LX100 III
25.2MP MFT (Live Hybrid MOS)
Confirmed
Successor to LX100 II, likely compact MFT
P2306A
Panasonic G100 II / Entry-Level Model
MFT Sensor
Unconfirmed
Potential update to G100 series
Conclusion
So, if we sum up all the information, then the Panasonic P2307 is the S1R Mark II camera, which has already been announced and features a 44.3-megapixel full-frame sensor. Now, the next camera on the list is the P2303A, which is expected to be the Panasonic S1H Mark II camera with a 24-megapixel sensor. These two models are almost confirmed. Apart from these two, we do have confirmation from Panasonic itself that they are working on a fixed-lens MFT model camera.
The key points of this article suggest Realme and Xiaomi are working on or considering the possibility of an interchangeable lens-based concept smartphone, and one of these latest smartphones was showcased at the MWC conference in 2025.
Now, the Realme concept phone users, and the best part is you can use the Leica M mount lenses over that smartphone, but the drawback is the mount doesn’t have any electrical contact tools, so you have to use manual focus lenses.
Xiaomi has two concept smartphones. The first one was showcased back in 2022, the 12S Ultra, which had a 1-inch sensor. Now, the second smartphone has been showcased in 2025, which uses a modular optical system with a 100-megapixel Micro Four Thirds format sensor in the Xiaomi 15 Pro model.
Smartphone makers are now getting more and more serious about photography, content creation, and videography. In the past decade, we have seen or witnessed smartphone makers already competing with compact cameras.
Impact on Traditional Camera Makers
The key thing is that we have to understand, and it’s even more important for camera makers like Sony, Canon, and Nikon. Smartphones are getting smarter day by day, and now they are moving into interchangeable lens design. Once this happens commercially, the camera makers will take a very big hit in the mirrorless camera market share, which was safe until now.
Realme’s Concept Smartphone at MWC 2025
Now, first, let’s talk about the Realme concept smartphone.
The Realme concept phone was showcased at MWC 2025, which was held in Barcelona. This particular concept features the latest 1-inch sensor, and you can use Leica M mount lenses, like a 73mm portrait lens, to capture cinematic portrait images. You can also attach a 34mm telephoto lens to get 10x optical zoom with the highest possible quality. But the downside is that since it’s Realme’s first smartphone with an interchangeable lens design and they are not into concept phones like Xiaomi, the problem here is their first prototype does not have any electrical contacts between the lens and the smartphone camera system.
Although the Realme concept smartphone design is great and can be loved by professional photographers, those who are heavily into using manual focus lenses, even if it gets produced for consumers, it will have a very limited market space.
However, we must understand one thing: smartphone makers are constantly exploring new concepts and designs to expand their share in the camera market. They are specifically targeting the elite consumer base—those willing to invest a significant amount in high-end camera gear. This very consumer segment also forms the backbone of the mirrorless camera industry.
Xiaomi’s More Advanced Concept Camera
Now, let’s talk about an even more interesting camera concept by Xiaomi, which has been showcased at MWC 2025. But even before that, let me tell you, Xiaomi is not new to making concept camera-based smartphones. Their first concept smartphone was the 12S Ultra, which used a 1-inch sensor with a Leica M mount. Now, you can relate this to the similarities with the Realme concept smartphone, which has been showcased at MWC 2025, exhibiting similar properties that Xiaomi had already shown back in 2022.
Xiaomi’s Groundbreaking Smart Lens Model
But wait, there is more from Xiaomi, and this really surprised us this time.
At MWC 2025, a new concept lens model with its own integrated sensor and physical contact has been showcased.
Now, this particular custom design combines the Xiaomi 15 smartphone with detachable lens modules. This lens module uses a 35mm f/1.4 lens and a 100-megapixel custom-made Micro Four Thirds format sensor, which produces very natural bokeh while shooting video or capturing images. The tonal quality of skin tones and other subjects being captured is directly coming from Leica Lab, as it is co-engineered with Leica Camera Division, Germany.
Xiaomi’s New Laser Link Technology
Xiaomi has also shown us the Laser Link technology for quick data transfer up to 10 Gbps between the lens and the camera module. This enables lag-free data transfer between the lens and the camera body. Now, this prototype just shows how serious smartphone makers are about more professional photography and video capture equipment, enhancing the overall experience of cinematography and photography in smartphones.
Comparing Concept Smartphones by Xiaomi and Realme
Below, we have shown three different tables comparing the basic differences between the three concept smartphones showcased by Xiaomi and Realme from 2022 to 2025.
Feature
Realme Interchangeable Lens Concept
Xiaomi 12S Ultra Concept (2022)
Xiaomi Modular Optical System (2025)
Base Sensor
1-inch Sony CMOS, fixed in the phone
1-inch 50MP Sony IMX989, fixed in phone
The phone has its cameras, module has a 100MP Type 4/3 sensor
Lens Attachment
Leica M mount, attached to phone sensor
Leica M mount, attached to phone sensor
Magnetically attaches, a separate module with lens and sensor
Additional Cameras
Main and ultrawide, fixed
In-built 48MP ultra-wide, fixed
The phone’s built-in cameras are disabled when the module attached
Demonstrated Lenses
73mm portrait, 234mm telephoto
Compatible with Leica M-series lenses
35mm f/1.4 lens in module
Data Transfer
N/A (uses phone’s processing)
N/A (uses phone’s processing)
LaserLink up to 10 Gbps, pogo pins for power
Status
Prototype, MWC 2025
Prototype, not mass-produced, 2022
Prototype, MWC 2025, no release schedule
Impact of These Concept Cameras on the Market
The emergence of Realme and Xiaomi’s concept camera smartphones over the past few years has raised a major question: What will happen if one of these prototypes they are working on enters mass production? Recently, we have seen Realme may not be an immediate candidate for mass production, but a smartphone with a camera or lens module featuring its own Micro Four Thirds format sensor of 100 megapixels is highly production-ready.
Xiaomi’s 100MP Smart Lens Could Kill Mirrorless Cameras
And the worst part is that we have seen the image and video quality of Xiaomi’s latest smart lens modules with a 100MP M4/3 format sensor, and the results are exceptional—far better than any existing smartphone we have seen till now. The background blur and the bokeh are so clear and natural that they rival those generated from large sensors and 35mm f/1.4 lenses. This could literally kill mirrorless cameras out there.
The Future of Photography and Videography in Smartphones
Now, the best part for photographers and content creators is that photography and videography are evolving at a very fast pace. Surprisingly, none of the camera makers are involved in this. Smartphone makers like Realme and Xiaomi are working on concept cameras, and I really like the output of the recent Xiaomi 15 smartphone with a 100MP Micro Four Thirds format sensor. It is highly acceptable for professional photographers, and I would love to see more smart lenses featuring the same sensor in upcoming releases if they plan to do so in the near future.
What’s next from Nikon specifically in F1.2 lenses? Matt Irwin Photography, we have some gaps in the wide range and the tele range, although we do have lenses like:
We already have lenses like Nikon 50mm, 85mm, and the recently announced 35mm F1.2 lens. [check Nikon F1.2 Lenses at B&H Store and Adorama]
So the next upcoming lenses should be 24mm F1.2, maybe 28mm F1.2 (28mm is less likely to happen), and finally the 105mm F1.2 S. Yes, we do have the micro edition of 105mm F2.8, but not the portrait one with an F1.2 aperture.
Once the lineup is complete, Nikon will have an elite series of F1.2 lenses for the desired bokeh. Not limited to that, we will see some additions to the Noct lenses shortly.
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