The Vivo X200 Ultra has officially launched, making waves in the smartphone market with its innovative features and powerful specifications. This flagship model, unveiled on April 21, 2025, in China, is set to compete directly with top contenders like the Galaxy S25 Ultra and the Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
At the heart of the X200 Ultra is the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, providing robust performance for demanding applications and multitasking. Coupled with a massive 6,000mAh battery, the phone supports 90W wired and 40W wireless charging, ensuring that users can stay powered throughout the day. The device also boasts a stunning 6.82-inch QHD+ LTPO OLED display, capable of achieving a peak brightness of 4,500 nits, making it one of the brightest screens available on the market today.
One of the standout features of the X200 Ultra is its rear camera system, which includes a 50MP LYT-818 sensor with a unique 35mm focal length. This design deviates from the standard 24mm focal length found in most smartphones, allowing for a natural 1.4x zoom, which many photographers find more versatile. According to industry experts, this focal length is particularly effective for various photography styles, making it a smart choice for Vivo.
In addition to the main camera, the X200 Ultra features an ultrawide camera that also utilizes the same 50MP LYT-818 sensor. This combination is expected to deliver impressive light capture and detail, as demonstrated by Vivo's astrophotography samples showcasing the ultrawide lens's capabilities.
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the X200 Ultra is its innovative 200MP periscope telephoto camera, which offers 3.7x optical zoom and a macro focus as close as 15cm. The phone's design includes an optional 2.35x telephoto converter lens, which, when attached, transforms the telephoto camera into a native 8.7x (200mm) zoom lens. Vivo claims that this setup allows users to achieve 35x usable zoom, with 70x zoom that rivals 30x quality without the lens. This marks a significant advancement in smartphone camera technology, as it introduces one of the first commercial uses of a detachable lens system for smartphones.
The accompanying camera grip enhances the photography experience further. It includes a 2,300mAh battery, dedicated shutter buttons for photo and video, a customizable control dial, and zoom toggles, all designed to mimic professional camera rigs. This grip is not just functional but also adds a new dimension to mobile photography.
Other notable camera features of the X200 Ultra include a 50MP front-facing camera, the ability to record 4K video at 60fps in 10-bit Log format across all rear lenses, and 4K 120fps video capabilities. The phone also incorporates dual imaging chips for pre- and post-processing, which enhance the overall image quality.
The X200 Ultra runs on Vivo's OriginOS 5, based on Android, and includes dual stereo speakers, an IR blaster, and a Goodix ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner. While Vivo has not specified the update policy for this model, previous models like the X200 Pro have offered four major Android OS updates and five years of security patches.
Pricing for the Vivo X200 Ultra starts at 6,499 CNY (approximately $890) for the 12GB RAM and 256GB storage variant, while the top-tier model with 16GB RAM and 1TB storage, which includes satellite connectivity, is priced at 7,999 CNY (around $1,096). The device is available in three color options: Silver, Red, and Black.
Vivo also offers a Photographer Kit that includes the 16GB/1TB model, camera grip, shoulder strap, telephoto converter lens, and a phone case, priced at 9,699 CNY (roughly $1,329). For those who already own the phone, the kit without it is available at a promotional price of 1,699 CNY (about $233), and a recommended price of 2,598 CNY (approximately $356).
Despite the excitement surrounding the X200 Ultra, it is important to note that Vivo has confirmed there are currently no plans to launch the device outside of China. This decision is disappointing for international fans eager to experience its advanced camera features and performance enhancements.
The launch of the Vivo X200 Ultra signifies a bold step forward in mobile photography and smartphone technology, challenging established players in the market. With its unique camera capabilities and powerful hardware, it is poised to redefine what users can expect from flagship smartphones in 2025. As mobile photography continues to evolve, the X200 Ultra stands out as a noteworthy contender, merging cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design.
