Xiaomi Unveils Magnetically Detachable Lens at MWC2025: Revolutionizing Mobile Photography with LaserLink Technology

Xiaomi Unveils Magnetically Detachable Lens at MWC2025: Revolutionizing Mobile Photography with LaserLink TechnologyAt Mobile World Congress 2025 (MWC2025), Xiaomi unveiled a groundbreaking concept product that reimagines mobile photography: the Xiaomi Modular Optical System. This system comprises a specially modified Xiaomi 15 phone and a detachable 35mm lens, connected via innovative magnetic attachment and high-speed LaserLink optical communication technology, offering an unprecedented shooting experience

Xiaomi Unveils Magnetically Detachable Lens at MWC2025: Revolutionizing Mobile Photography with LaserLink Technology

At Mobile World Congress 2025 (MWC2025), Xiaomi unveiled a groundbreaking concept product that reimagines mobile photography: the Xiaomi Modular Optical System. This system comprises a specially modified Xiaomi 15 phone and a detachable 35mm lens, connected via innovative magnetic attachment and high-speed LaserLink optical communication technology, offering an unprecedented shooting experience.

The core of the "Xiaomi Modular Optical System" is a detachable 35mm f/1.4 lens. Equipped with a 100-megapixel LightFusion X Type 4/3 sensor and variable aperture, it delivers exceptional image quality even in low-light conditions. Unlike traditional external phone lenses, the Xiaomi Modular Optical System uses a MagSafe-like magnetic connection; users simply attach the lens to the back of the Xiaomi 15 for quick installation.

Within the camera app, users can switch to the detachable lens mode with a single tap. Photos are saved directly to the phone's gallery and support RAW output for advanced post-processing. The lens features a built-in autofocus motor, controllable via touchscreen taps, and a physical focus ring for precise manual adjustments. Impressively, even in Pro mode, the lens' response speed is virtually indistinguishable from the phone's built-in camera.

Wired magazine's review highlighted the system's ability to naturally render depth of field, effortlessly achieving background blura feat typically requiring a phone's portrait mode. However, portrait modes often rely on algorithms to detect object edges, leading to errors with hair, glasses, and other details. The Xiaomi Modular Optical System achieves depth of field optically, bypassing algorithmic limitations for more natural and accurate bokeh.

The core technology behind the Xiaomi Modular Optical System is Xiaomi's proprietary LaserLink technology. This light-based communication technology uses small light points on both the phone and lens, transmitting data via near-infrared lasers at speeds up to 10Gbps. This high-speed connection ensures smooth shooting and collaborates with Xiaomi's AI computational photography system for further image quality optimizationa capability beyond traditional external lens technologies.

The lens is powered via two contacts on the phone's back, with Xiaomi claiming power consumption comparable to the built-in camera. Its compact size ensures portability, while the plug-and-play design enhances usability. For photography enthusiasts, the system potentially offers a wider range of professional lenses, expanding the possibilities of mobile photography. However, the need to carry an extra lens does somewhat compromise the "point-and-shoot" convenience of a phone camera.

LaserLink's potential extends far beyond mobile photography. Xiaomi envisions its application in various magnetically attached accessories, including chargers, power banks, and game controllers. LaserLink enables seamless connectivity within the Xiaomi ecosystem, encompassing smart speakers, smart home products, and potentially even vehicles, creating a more intelligent and interconnected user experience.

The Xiaomi Modular Optical System, as a concept product, showcases Xiaomi's innovation in mobile imaging technology and its exploration of future technologies. While still in the conceptual phase, its potential and applications offer new perspectives for the mobile photography industry. The combination of magnetic connection, high-speed optical communication, and modular design enhances the professionalism of mobile photography and opens new possibilities for future smart device interconnectivity.

This launch marks another breakthrough for Xiaomi in mobile imaging. By seamlessly integrating optical and digital technologies, the Xiaomi Modular Optical System provides a superior shooting experience and sets a new direction for future mobile imaging technology. It elevates mobile photography to new heights, catering to both professional photographers and casual users.

The Xiaomi Modular Optical System not only represents progress in mobile photography but also foreshadows the potential for future smart device interconnectivity. LaserLink technology, as the core driver, offers unlimited possibilities for expanding the Xiaomi ecosystem. This technology allows Xiaomi to connect more smart devices to the phone, offering a more convenient and intelligent user experience, enriching users' lives with a more convenient and efficient smart lifestyle.

Furthermore, the detachable design offers new design ideas for phone manufacturers. While pursuing thinness and portability, users can choose different lenses based on their needs, meeting various shooting requirements. This will further enhance the phone's practicality and versatility, making mobile photography more flexible and convenient.

In conclusion, the Xiaomi Modular Optical System and its underlying LaserLink technology represent a significant breakthrough in mobile imaging technology and smart device interconnectivity. It not only unveils new possibilities for mobile photography but also lays a solid foundation for building a future smart ecosystem. Its innovation and forward-thinking approach deserve industry-wide learning and emulation. The mature application of this technology will significantly improve user experience and bring revolutionary changes to the mobile imaging technology field. Although currently in the conceptual stage, its future potential is undeniably exciting.