At Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, Realme introduced a groundbreaking Interchangeable Lens Concept smartphone, taking mobile photography to the next level. The concept device integrates a 1-inch Sony sensor with an interchangeable lens system, allowing users to swap lenses just like they would on mirrorless or DSLR cameras.

This innovation validates industry claims that smartphone cameras are closing the gap with professional digital cameras, offering users unmatched creative control and versatility.

Key Features of Realme’s Interchangeable Lens Concept

1-inch Sony Sensor – Larger sensor for enhanced image quality and depth.
Interchangeable Lens System – Users can swap lenses just like a DSLR or mirrorless camera.
Multiple Focal Lengths –
73mm f/1.4 lens – Ideal for portraits.
234mm f/1.5 telephoto lens – Designed for high-quality zoom shots.
Traditional Smartphone Cameras – Supports ultra-wide and wide-angle photography alongside its detachable lens system.

Why It Matters: This concept redefines mobile photography by offering true lens interchangeability, a feature previously exclusive to dedicated cameras.

Commercial Availability: Realme has not yet announced when (or if) this device will be available for purchase.

Xiaomi Competes with a Magnetic Camera System

Realme isn’t the only brand pushing smartphone camera innovation. Xiaomi has also introduced a modular camera system at MWC 2025, showcasing its Xiaomi 15 prototype with:

Magnetic Camera Attachments – A modular system that connects external lenses.
Micro Four Thirds Sensor – A larger sensor for superior image quality.
f/1.4 Lens – Designed for professional-grade low-light photography.

Like Realme, Xiaomi’s concept remains a prototype, with no confirmed release date.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra: The Best Camera Phone You Can Buy Soon

For consumers looking for an actual high-end camera phone rather than a concept, the upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra is set to launch in India on March 11. It features:

1-inch Sony LYT Sensor – Delivering top-tier image quality.
200 MP Periscope Zoom Lens – Exceptional telephoto capabilities.

This device is shaping up to be one of the best camera smartphones available, providing near-professional results.

The Future of Smartphone Photography

With Realme and Xiaomi leading the way, smartphones are evolving into serious photography tools. While concept devices like Realme’s interchangeable lens phone and Xiaomi’s modular camera system are still in the experimental phase, they hint at a future where mobile photography rivals professional-grade cameras.

For now, these innovations remain prototypes, but they showcase a game-changing shift in how smartphones capture images.

What is Realme’s Interchangeable Lens Concept smartphone?

• It’s a concept phone that allows users to swap lenses like a professional camera, featuring a 1-inch Sony sensor.

When will Realme’s interchangeable lens phone be available for purchase?

• Realme has not announced a release date, and it remains a concept for now.

How does Xiaomi’s new camera system compare to Realme’s?

• Xiaomi introduced a magnetic modular camera system, allowing users to attach professional camera lenses to their phone.

When will the Xiaomi 15 Ultra be available?

• The Xiaomi 15 Ultra will be released in India on March 11, 2025.

Are smartphone cameras now as good as professional cameras?

• While smartphones are closing the gap, interchangeable lens cameras still have the edge. However, future innovations could make them equal in quality.