News
Xiaomi 13 Ultra finally makes its much-awaited global debut
Four 50MP cameras plus a 1-inch sensor with variable aperture
Xiaomi first launched their very first smartphone with a 1-inch sensor through last year’s Xiaomi 12S Ultra. But unlike its predecessor, the Mi 11 Ultra, the 12S Ultra was only available in China.
After numerous speculations from leakers and much anticipation from fans, the company has revealed their latest and greatest flagship smartphone yet.
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra isn’t limited to their home turf anymore as it simultaneously made its much-awaited global debut.
The Ultra-fication of the Pro
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra isn’t that different from its “Pro” sibling. You still get that already great flagship-grade experience with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset plus Adreno 740 graphics.

However, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra has better configurations up in its sleeve. The base model starts at 12+256GB (versus 8+128/256 on the Pro). Getting a 512GB or a 1TB UFS 4.0 storage automatically gives you a whopping 16GB of LPDDR5X memory (instead of just 12GB). What a smartphone overkill!

While both are equipped with the same 6.73-inch 120Hz 2K (or WQHD+) display, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra boasts the LTPO3 technology while the Pro variant relies on first-generation LTPO. The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is also 100 nits brighter (at 1300 nits) when in HBM (High Brightness Mode). Meanwhile, its peak brightness maxes out at 2600 nits (versus 1900 nits on the 13 Pro).

The Xiaomi 13 Ultra also features a bigger 5000mAh battery (compared to 4820mAh) but uses the less speedy 90W proprietary charging support over Xiaomi 13 Pro’s 120W HyperCharge. However, the Ultra keeps the Pro’s 50W wireless charging + 10W reverse wireless charging support.

Other premium features still remain such as the Gorilla Glass Victus glass protection as well as being IP68-rated.

Lastly, instead of relying on a silicone polymer or a smudgy ceramic glass back, all Xiaomi 13 Ultra colorways have an eco-leather back. Not only it features a better design, it also adds more grip thanks to that leather texture backing that will truly remind you of professional Leica cameras.
Quad-boggling 50MP cameras
Xiaomi has already marketed the Xiaomi 13 Pro as an ultimate mobile photography companion with its triple 50MP camera setup. But the Xiaomi 13 Ultra takes everything on a whole new level.

The headlining (and the biggest, literally) feature of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is none other than its ultra-massive Leica-branded circular camera bump that houses not just one, but four massive 50-megapixel cameras beneath.

While both of these Xiaomi phones sport a similar 50MP 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra has an extra handy feature — its dual-variable aperture that lets the user choose between f/1.9 or f/4.0 depending on the photography subject being taken. This rivals the Huawei P60 Pro as well as the Mate 50 Pro.

The rest of Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s 50MP cameras are then based from Sony’s IMX858 sensor (versus Samsung JN1). But aside from the existing 3.2x telephoto lens, they’ve added an extra f/3.0 5x periscope zoom lens (or a 120mm-based “Super Telephoto lens” according to Xiaomi) with EIS for blurry-free zoomed shots.
It seems like Xiaomi is trying to hit two birds with one stone as the newly-added periscope lens directly hits the 10x lens of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.

Looking further at the nitty-gritty camera differences, the ultra-wide and 3.2x telephoto lenses of the Xiaomi 13 Ultra vs Pro are also different (in particular order):
- 122 versus 115 degree UWA FoV (Ultra-Wide Angle Field of View)
- f/1.8 on both lenses versus f/2.2 (UWA) / f/2.0 (3.2x telephoto)
- OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is present on Xiaomi 13 Ultra’s telephoto and periscope lenses; Xiaomi 13 Pro only relies on PDAF (Phase Detection Auto Focus)
These cameras also have Leica’s color modes and Summicron optics. A ToF 3D depth sensor is also present that the Pro model lacks.
Pricing and availability
The Xiaomi 13 Ultra is available in three colors: black, white, and the signature olive green.

Even though the smartphone will be available globally, Xiaomi only revealed Chinese pricing in three configurations:
- 12GB + 256GB = CNY 5999 (US$ 873 / EUR 795 / GBP 701 / SG$ 1162 / PhP 49,090 / INR 71,568)
- 16GB + 512GB = CNY 6499 (US$ 945 / EUR 862 / GBP 759 / SG$ 1259 / PhP 53,182 / INR 77,533)
- 16GB + 1TB = CNY 7299 (US$ 1062 / EUR 968 / GBP 853 / SG$ 1414 / PhP 59,729 / INR 87,077)

Xiaomi also offers the Professional Photography Kit for CNY 799 (US$ 116 / EUR 106 / GBP 93 / SG$ 155 / PhP 6538 / INR 9532). This includes a 67mm filter ring adapter, lens cap, nano skin protective case, and a wireless camera handle with lanyard/strap for that added grip.
News
Two new Xiaomi audio wearables join REDMI Note 15 Series
The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses and REDMI Buds 8 Lite
Xiaomi has launched two new audio wearables on the same day it launched the REDMI Note 15 in the Philippines.
These two wearables are the Mijia Smart Audio Glasses and the REDMI Buds 8 Lite.
The two new offerings expand Xiaomi’s ecosystem, bringing innovative features in different form factors to users.
Mijia Smart Audio Glasses
The Mijia Smart Audio Glasses house a speaker system and four built-in microphones in a stylish eyewear design.
This enables users to stay aware of surroundings while enjoying crystal-clear audio and 4.5m/s wind noise reduction.
It is an ideal accessory for city walks, outdoor travel, and even more discreet scenarios like meetings and calls with a new privacy mode.
This mode leverages a custom algorithm to ensure clear audio while significantly reducing sound leakage.
Inside the glasses are non-coaxial steel-cased batteries. Full charging takes just about an hour, and fuels up to 13 hours of music playback.
Users can connect the wearable to the Xiaomi Glasses app for greater customization and control.
The Mijia glasses are available in three styles: Titanium, Pilot-Style, and Browline. All lenses can be replaced with prescription ones if needed.
In addition, the Browline and Titanium come with up to 25% blue light protection lenses while the Pilot-Style features up to a 99.99% UV light blocking rate.
Pricing:
- Browline and Pilot-Style: Starts at PhP 10,999
- Titanium: Starts at PhP 12,999
REDMI Buds 8 Lite
On the other hand, the REDMI Buds 8 Lite are built for those who seek practicality and crystal-clear sound at the same time.
The buds house large 12.4mm titanium-diaphragm drivers for clear sound and rich detail. They support Bluetooth 5.4 connection for AAC and SBC audio codecs for high-quality audio across a wide range of devices.
Moreover, the REDMI Buds 8 Lite feature up to 42dB hybrid active noise cancellation, on top of a Transparency Mode.
The ANC uses a combination of talk and feedback microphones to effectively detect and suppress ambient noise.
And with the Xiaomi Earbuds app, users can tailor-fit the sound better to their liking with five pre-installed EQ modes and the option to customize EQ tuning.
The Buds 8 Lite is available in Black, White, and Blue starting at PhP 1,199.
Joining the two new Xiaomi audio wearables are other AIoT devices that are now available at online and offline Xiaomi stores: the Mijia Smart Air Purifier Max, Xiaomi Electric Scooter 6, and 6 Lite.
News
REDMI Note 15 Series unveiled: Price, availability in the Philippines
4 models available starting at PhP 9,999
The REDMI Note 15 Series has been officially launched in the Philippines. It comes in four variants: the Note 15 Pro+ 5G, Note 15 Pro 5G, Note 15 5G, and Note 15.
Featuring “REDMI Titan Durability”, the lineup highlights long-lasting battery performance, reinforced drop resistance, and enhanced dust and water protection.
Alongside these physical upgrades, the REDMI Note 15 Series also comes with enhanced imaging capabilities, reliable performance, and a seamless overall user experience.
Xiaomi also introduced the Mijia Smart Audio Glasses and REDMI Buds 8 Lite, among others, expanding their ecosystem.
The top-of-the-line variants, the REDMI Note 15 Pro+ 5G and REDMI Note 15 Pro 5G, feature 6,500mAh batteries with 100W HyperCharge.
Making its REDMI Note Series debut, the Silicon-Carbon battery technology enables higher energy density within a compact form factor.
The Pro variants also come with better protection, with the Pro having a Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and the Pro+ having a tough fiberglass back panel.
In addition, the Pro+ comes with IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K dust and water resistance ratings.
Meanwhile, the REDMI Note 15 5G and REDMI Note 15 house 5,520mAh and 6,000mAh batteries, respectively. These two models also have SGS Comprehensive Shock and Drop-Resistance certifications.
Cameras
Onto the series’ cameras, both Pro models boast of a new 200MP ultimate-clarity camera, along with the global debut of a 200MP HPE image sensor.
This large, 1/1.4-inch sensor backs 2x and 4x optical-level in-sensor zoom, triple-focal length DAG HDR, and advanced AI processing. This way, users can get detailed and true-to-life images across in various lighting conditions.
The two Note 15 variants, meanwhile, come with 108MP main cameras. These offer up to a 3x optical-level telephoto experience.
Creative and AI-powered tools complement the shooting experience. There’s ultra-clear portrait algorithm, Dynamic shots 2.0, and AI Creativity Assistant on the Pro models.
Across the entire lineup are everyday creativity features like AI Remove Reflection and AI Beautify.
Upgraded performance, smarter connectivity
The REDMI Note 15 Series also delivers balanced performance in the segment. Powering the Note 15 Pro+ 5G is a Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 mobile platform and introduces the Xiaomi IceLoop cooling system.
The entire lineup also come with new generation Snapdragon and MediaTek chipsets for faster performance and smoother graphics.
All models support Google Gemini and Circle to Search with Google out of the box. The Pro+ also integrates Xiaomi HyperAI for a more personalized and intelligent experience.
And for enhanced connectivity, the Pro models support Xiaomi Offline Communication which allows for voice transmission even without network coverage.
Immersive audiovisual experience
In front, the series offers an upgraded viewing experience. The Pro models have 6.83-inch displays, while the base models have 6.77-inch screens.
These have up to 3,200 nits brightness and triple eye-care certifications. Complementing these are up to a 400% volume boost capability.
Price, availability
The REDMI Note 15 Pro models retail for the following prices:
- Note 15 Pro+ 5G: PhP 27,999 (Mocha Brown, Glacier Blue, Black)
- Note 15 Pro 5G: Starts at PhP 19,999 (Mist Purple, Black)
Early bird purchases (January 16 to 29) include a PhP 2,000 savings, Xiaomi Smart Band 10, and Black Box Gift Set.
From January 30 to February 8, the same freebies (minus the discount) are still available to claim.
On the other hand, the REDMI Note 15 base models are available for:
- Note 15 5G: Starts at PhP 14,999 (Glacier Blue, Mist Purple, Black)
- Note 15: Starts at PhP 9,999 (Glacier Blue, Purple, Black)
Customers can grab an additional PhP 1,000 off, REDMI Buds 8 Lite, and Xiaomi Black Backpack until January 29, with the two freebies available for purchases made until February 8.
Other perks include:
- 4-year battery replacement warranty
- 2-year liquid damage coverage
- 2-year front & back cover replacement
- 3 months Spotify Premium
- 3-month 100GB cloud storage
All models are now available across Lazada, Shopee, TikTok Shop, and mi.com.
Accessories
Sony ships its LinkBuds Fit Hatsune Miku edition to the United States
It will come with the special acrylic stand.
Hatsune Miku is finding her way everywhere. Last year, the pop icon built partnerships where you might have least expected one. Now, a recent collaboration has made it to new shores. Sony is shipping its recent partnership with Hatsune Miku in the United States.
In the middle of last year, Sony released a limited edition of the LinkBuds Fit featuring Hatsune Miku. Inside, the special variant is indistinguishable from the original series. However, it will have special colorway options, including the icon’s signature green.
Now, the limited edition is now available in the United States. It will be available for US$ 249.99.
Like the first launch, buying the special edition of the earbuds will give fans a limited-edition acrylic earbud stand featuring newly illustrated artwork by Ogipote. It also features two original HoloModels of the character.
Further, those who purchased the device will get access to a special campaign song called “BELIEVE DAY” and an animated performance of the same song. Fans need only to register their product and install the HoloModels app.
SEE ALSO: Sony PH offers limited-time LinkBuds Fit x Hatsune Miku bundle
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