Leading smartphone maker Xiaomi will reportedly retain the 1-inch primary camera sensor in its next-generation flagship devices. In contrast, the long-awaited 1.33-inch sensor (not to be confused with the 1/1.33-inch) is currently still in the R&D phase.

The future is 1.33 inches, but not yet

According to Digital Chat Station, with its innovative algorithm, Nubia’s 35mm main camera (see our full Nubia Z50 Ultra review) surpasses certain features of the 1-inch sensor. This intriguing development shows that Nubia’s upcoming flagship smartphone could potentially become a leading contender in the market.

First introduced in the Xiaomi 12S Ultra in late 2022, the 1-inch Sony IMX989 sensor marked a significant shift in smartphone technology. Throughout 2023, the 1-inch sensor has been widely used in a number of Xiaomi models, including Xiaomi 13 Pro and Xiaomi 13 Ultra, as well as devices from other manufacturers such as OPPO Find X6 Pro and vivo X90 Pro+. In fact, Xiaomi currently leads the pack with the most models with a 1-inch main camera sensor. Apart from Xiaomi, Sony and Sharp have also integrated 1-inch sensors into their devices.

As for Xiaomi’s release plans, it looks like the company will deviate from its predecessor, launching new ‘S’ variants in the second half of the year. Speculations suggest that Xiaomi’s upcoming flagship could be the Xiaomi 14 series, which is said to include three models: Xiaomi 1, Xiaomi 14 Pro and Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Each of these devices is expected to be introduced at separate events.