Core Viewpoint - Xiaomi's public relations manager Wang Hua denied rumors about the termination of the partnership with Leica, stating that such claims are unfounded [1][3]. Group 1: Partnership Details - The collaboration between Xiaomi and Leica began in May 2022, focusing on mobile imaging technology [3]. - The first product launched from this partnership was the Xiaomi 12S series in July 2022, which received positive feedback from professional photographers [3]. - In April 2023, both companies announced an upgrade to their mobile imaging optical system, introducing the Summicron lens on the new Xiaomi 13 Ultra, described as Leica's most perfect lens in mobile imaging to date [3]. Group 2: Speculations and Financial Considerations - A report suggested that Xiaomi might end its partnership with Leica to focus on developing its own camera technology for the next generation Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 devices, indicating a shift in strategy [3]. - The report also mentioned that terminating the partnership could help Xiaomi reduce licensing fees, which could be as high as $3-5 per device, thereby lowering production costs and enhancing pricing advantages, particularly for its Redmi and POCO series [3]. Group 3: Previous Issues and Clarifications - In May 2023, there were rumors about issues in the partnership when the "LEICA" watermark disappeared from the camera interface of some Xiaomi models after a system update [4]. - Xiaomi's camera product manager clarified that this change was in compliance with Leica's updated visual standards, emphasizing adherence to strict branding guidelines [4]. Group 4: Industry Context - Leica is a renowned German optical company known for its high-quality cameras and lenses, which have become cultural symbols in the photography community [5]. - Previously, Huawei had a partnership with Leica, which ended in March 2022, marking the last Huawei phone with Leica branding as the P50 series [5]. - The competition among domestic smartphone manufacturers is intensifying, particularly in the area of imaging capabilities and partnerships with established lens manufacturers [5].