Xiaomi’s modular optical system could arrive in 2026

Xiaomi is apparently preparing to bring its Modular Optical System to market this year. While it started as a research project just last year, Xiaomi had already shown its prototype at Mobile World Congress. And now recent reports are suggesting to us that it is moving toward mass production. This article will discuss everything we know about Xiaomi’s detachable camera module, including its design, specs, and potential phone compatibility. Let’s get into the details!

Xiaomi Modular Optical System Rumors

Camera and Optics

The module is centered around a 100MP micro four-thirds sensor, paired with a 35mm f/1.4-f/11 lens that includes a manual focus ring. It offers 2x native zoom through pixel binning. Rather than having its own processing hardware, the camera relies on the phone’s image signal processor (ISP) for all image computation.

Connection and Performance

Xiaomi’s system uses a high-speed connection called LaserLink, which allows up to 10Gbps data transfer with low latency. This module draws power directly from the phone and has no onboard battery, meaning it powers down when idle and takes a few seconds to boot. This keeps it lightweight at 100 grams. The module is designed to be minimalistic, which makes it light and stripped-down, but the boot-up time and limited device support are trade-offs here. 

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Compatibility

So far, the prototype has been demoed with a custom Xiaomi 15, but the Xiaomi Mix 5 could be the first flagship designed to fully support LaserLink. To use the module, phones need both Qi2-style magnetic mounts and the LaserLink connection, which limits compatibility to specific models.

Xiaomi Modular Optical System Rumors Conclusion

Xiaomi’s modular approach is still niche, but if it reaches mass production this year, it could mark a new direction for smartphone photography, which has been stagnant for a while now.

• Meanwhile, check out our review of the Realme 16 Pro +