Xiaomi patents rectangular zoom camera design for upcoming handhelds

Even though Samsung recently launched its 108 MP smartphone image sensor, none of its current models actually integrate it. There are rumors that the S11 may include  this latest sensor, but it is quite strange how Samsung allows competitors to integrate such top-of-the-line features in models that launch months ahead of its own implementations.

Take for example the new Xiaomi Mi CC9 Pro Premium that is launching this week. The Chinese model already integrates the 108 MP sensor from Samsung, while the smaller sensors are paired with a 2X/5X zoom system, and it looks like Xiaomi is planning to launch more advanced zoom models in 2020. A recent Xiaomi patent discovered by LetsGoDigital depicts what looks like a rectangular camera that will integrate at least 5X zoom lenses combined with 50X digital zoom features.

In late October, Xiaomi released a beta version for the MiUI 11 OS and the guys over at XDA Developers looked for clues about any outstanding specs planned for upcoming models. This is where the 5X zoom / 50X digital zoom combo was first spotted. Moreover, the OS appeared to support video recording capabilities up to 8K @ 30 fps. The new rectangular camera design from Xiaomi’s patents is essentially reinforcing the possibility of seeing those specs in a 2020 model.

Apart from the rectangular camera, the patent also shows a selfie cam at the top that is linked to the rear cam setup, which includes three other sensors. The number of sensors is probably irrelevant, yet the rectangular camera slot appears to have two separate segments that can open up to reveal the advanced zooming system.

It will be interesting to see if Samsung will finally include the 64 MP and 108 MP sensors in its 2020 flagships. Up until now, only some premium mid-range A-series models integrated more advanced sensors, with the Galaxy S and Note series being restricted to old 12 / 16 MP sensors. Xiaomi, on the other hand, is always prioritizing the implementation of the best sensors on its top-of-the-line models, and these come at very competitive prices. Will Samsung finally adopt a similar strategy for next year?