Xiaomi showed off its Modular Optical System at the last MWC, which looked like a typical exhibition toy for enthusiasts. Few expected it to go into production or even be released globally. But now there is a small, yet very interesting indication that this could change this year. And if you have ever encountered the limits of mobile photography (especially at night or with zoom), this is a possible solution that each of us would appreciate.
Modular Optical System was a concept that solved the basic problem: better photos need space. Xiaomi at that time demonstrated an additional module with a significantly larger sensor (there was talk of a format Micro Four Thirds, i.e. the size common for compact cameras) and most importantly, a smart connection to the phone. It was not just a "mountable lens", but an entire camera module that connects to the mobile phone and is supposed to work quickly, without unnecessary latency and without additional battery in addition.
Xiaomi is betting on mobile power
Specifically mentioned fast laser data connection and also that the module can power directly from the phoneThis is important because most external solutions end up becoming a hassle for people to use over time: charging, pairing, delays, custom apps, and the like.
Now comes a message from a well-known leaker Digital Chat Station from Weibo that mass production of magnetic lenses has already started and the product could arrive already this year. It sounds vague, but the word "magnetic" is the key here. Either it's a banality like a magnetic attachment for an existing camera, or (and this is the more interesting one) varianta) something bigger that deserves its own production line.
And when you put together what Xiaomi showed last year and how much it is being addressed today taking photos with a mobile phone as the primary camera, it makes the most sense to me that this applies to that modular system.
I'm always skeptical of similar concepts, but the difference here is that Xiaomi aimed for two things that are decisive: speed (to make it feel like part of the mobile) and simplicity (click and take a picture). If Xiaomi shows the second generation or even the final product at MWC this year, it may be the first time in a long time that an "external module" will not just be a toy for geeks, but a really usable accessory.
It's still just an indication, not a confirmation. But if it really happens this year, we'll see. commercial modular camera from Xiaomi, it will be one of the most interesting innovations in mobile photography in recent years.
