Xiaomi’s Modular Optical System: The concept phone that snaps on a real camera lens

 

Introduction:

At MWC 2025, Xiaomi unveiled a new concept that a smartphone converts into a professional DSLR camera. This is called the Modular Optical System (MOS), this device uses Snap-on lens module with its own large image sensor, offering better camera capabilities and quality.

How the Modular Optical System Works:

• Magnetic Snap-on Design: A magnetic ring on the phone allows the lens to attach to that ring - no cases or cables required.

• Lens + Built-in Sensor: Unlike past attempts that just added optics, Xiaomi's module includes its own large-format sensor, ensuring better light capture and image quality.

• High-Speed Data Transfer: The module connects via pogo pins for power and LaserLink technology up to 10 Gbps data speeds, enabling seamless capture between the device and the lens.

• Demo Lens: A 35mm f/1.4-equivalent prime lens with physical focus controls was shown as the first working prototype.

Why it matters:

• Thin Phone, Big Camera on Demand: The device stays slim avoiding larger camera bumps. You only need to add the lens when needed and remove the lens after the use, making the device slim and sleek.

• Better Balance: Unlike attaching DSLR lenses to phones, this module is compact and ergonomic.

• Professional-Level Potential: A larger sensor plus f/1.4 glass means better low light performance and shallow depth of field not achievable on normal phone sensors.

• Future Upgrades: If the user wants a better camera device, the user can just purchase another camera module and use it for better photography.

How It Compares to Past Xiaomi Experiments:

In 2022, Xiaomi revealed Xiaomi 12S Ultra Concept, which uses a Leica M-mount adapter for DSLR lenses. While it is innovative, it relied on the phone's built-in sensor, making the setup bulky and not practical.

The new MOS design flips the ideas - the sensor is inside the lens module, making it more compact and balanced.

Hands-On Impressions:

 Early reports from MWC 2025 describe the MOS as feeling like a mini mirrorless camera:

• Compact but capable with a true prime lens.

• Instant lens swapping without rebooting apps.

• Promising low-light performance, though Xiaomi hasn't shared final image samples yet.

Limitations and Unanswered Questions:

• Unclear Specs: Some outlets cite a Micro Four Third Class sensor, others a 100 MP module - Xiaomi hasn't confirmed details.

• No Ecosystem Yet: Will there be zoom lenses or third-party modules ? Still unknown.

• Release & Price: This remains a concept only with no launch timeline.

Conclusion:

Xiaomi's Modular Optical System concept is not a product yet - but it hints that it may launch in future. Many of them have liked the concept, where smartphone stays slim and sleek while offering pro-level photography, it could reshape how we think about mobile cameras.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Xiaomi’s Modular Optical System (MOS)?
Xiaomi’s MOS is a concept smartphone shown at MWC 2025 that uses a magnetic Snap-On lens module with its own large image sensor, turning the phone into a compact professional-style camera.

2. Does the Xiaomi MOS work with regular DSLR or Leica lenses?
No. Unlike Xiaomi’s 2022 12S Ultra Concept that used Leica M-mount lenses, the MOS module has its own built-in lens and sensor. It is not designed for existing DSLR lenses.

3. What lens did Xiaomi demonstrate with the MOS concept?
The demo module featured a 35mm f/1.4-equivalent prime lens with autofocus and manual focus controls.

4. How does the lens module connect to the phone?
The module attaches magnetically, using pogo pins for power and LaserLink technology for high-speed (up to 10 Gbps) data transfer.

5. Will Xiaomi’s Modular Optical System be released commercially?
As of MWC 2025, Xiaomi has not announced a release date or pricing. The MOS remains a concept device, though the company hinted at expanding it into an ecosystem in the future.