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

Engadget
by Steve Dent,Mat Smith
March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Vivo’s X300 Ultra, a flagship smartphone designed for professional photographers and videographers, made its global debut at Mobile World Capital 2026 in Barcelona. The device features a groundbreaking 200MP telephoto sensor and a 400mm Zeiss telephoto extender lens, offering an impressive 8x zoom and up to 30x digital zoom. This marks Vivo’s push into the premium global market, with the X300 Ultra set to launch in international regions including Europe, signaling the company’s confidence in expanding its presence beyond China. The smartphone is part of an ecosystem that integrates seamlessly with high-end accessories like the SmallRig video cage and lens extender. The camera mount automatically recognizes connected lenses, while the 1/1.4-inch telephoto sensor delivers exceptional detail even at extreme zoom levels. Additionally, the device supports advanced features such as gimbal-grade optical image stabilization, motion-tracking focus, and 8K Dolby Vision HDR recording. For videographers, it natively supports ACES color science, making it compatible with professional editing workflows in DaVinci Resolve or Final Cut Pro. The X300 Ultra also comes with a pro-grade camera cage designed by SmallRig, featuring cold shoe mounts, quick-release ports, and physical controls for precise shutter and zoom adjustments. This setup allows users to attach handles, lights, and microphones, transforming the smartphone into a professional video production tool. While details about its processor and battery were not disclosed, the focus on camera capabilities suggests it will rival high-end mirrorless cameras in terms of image quality and versatility. Priced at around €1,400 for the X300 Pro model, the Ultra version is expected to be similarly competitive. However, its appeal lies in its ability to combine smartphone convenience with professional-grade features, offering a unique alternative for creators looking to blend still photography and video production into one device. Vivo’s move into global markets highlights its ambition to challenge established players like Sony and Canon, particularly among content creators who value portability and advanced imaging technology.
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Originally published on Engadget on 3/2/2026