Vivo's X300 Ultra goes global and gets a huge 400mm Zeiss telephoto lens

Source: Engadget

Overview

Vivo, traditionally a China‑centric brand, announced its next flagship at Mobile World Conference 2026 in Barcelona: the Vivo X300 Ultra. The device is positioned as a high‑end smartphone for professional photographers and content creators, featuring a 200 MP main camera sensor and a suite of accessories designed to extend its photographic capabilities.

Camera System

Main Sensor

The X300 Ultra will retain the 200 MP primary sensor introduced with the X300 Pro. While detailed specifications have not been disclosed, the phone is expected to include a flagship‑class processor, high‑refresh‑rate display, and a large battery, aligning with other premium smartphones.

Telephoto Extender

Vivo unveiled the Vivo Zeiss Telephoto Extender Gen 2 Ultra, a 400 mm‑equivalent lens accessory that provides roughly an 8× optical zoom over the phone’s native field of view. Key features include:

• Gimbal‑grade optical image stabilization
• Motion‑tracking focus technology
• Enhanced digital zoom when combined with the high‑quality optics

The extender is marketed as a way to achieve true telephoto performance without the compromises of digital zoom alone.

Pro‑Grade Camera Cage

In partnership with SmallRig, Vivo introduced a modular camera cage tailored for the X300 Ultra. Highlights of the cage:

• Expandable frame with multiple cold‑shoe mounts and quick‑release ports for accessories such as handles, lights, and microphones
• Dedicated physical buttons for tactile shutter control and zoom adjustment
• Integrated multi‑level cooling fan to maintain optimal performance during intensive shooting
• An External Lens Expansion Frame that securely holds the Zeiss Telephoto Extender

These features aim to give creators a more ergonomic and versatile shooting setup, similar to professional video rigs.

Market and Availability

Vivo emphasized that the X300 Ultra will be launched in international markets, though specific regions and pricing details remain undisclosed. For reference, the X300 Pro retails for around €1,400 in Europe. The company framed the global rollout as a “more proactive and confident approach” to expanding its presence in the premium smartphone segment.

Given the anticipated price point, potential buyers may weigh the X300 Ultra against dedicated mirrorless cameras and lenses, especially for professional‑level telephoto work.