Vivo ZEISS 2.35x Telephoto Extender is a purpose-built optical accessory created exclusively for select Vivo flagship smartphones

The Vivo ZEISS 2.35x Telephoto Extender is a purpose-built optical accessory created exclusively for select Vivo flagship smartphones, including the Vivo X300 and Vivo X300 Pro. Unlike traditional camera lenses, this is not a standalone optic—it functions only when attached directly to compatible Vivo phones.

What the Telephoto Extender Does

At its core, the accessory dramatically boosts the phone’s zoom capabilities. By adding 2.35x true optical magnification, it stretches the phone’s telephoto reach to an effective 200mm focal length, making it ideal for wildlife, sports, and distant landscape photography—without relying on digital cropping.

Design and Optical Engineering

Vivo has partnered with ZEISS to ensure the extender meets premium optical standards:

Lens Design: Uses a Kepler-style optical layout combined with ultra-low dispersion glass to minimize distortion and color fringing.

Build Quality: Constructed entirely from metal, giving it a rugged, professional feel rather than a typical smartphone accessory finish.

Attachment Mechanism: Features a snap-on mounting system that locks into place securely and can be attached or removed in roughly two seconds.

Weight: Around 190 grams, which adds noticeable heft to the phone.

For stability, the extender includes full tripod support, compatible with Arca-Swiss mounts as well as standard 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch screws.

How It’s Used

Once attached, users must activate the dedicated “Telephoto Extender” mode inside the Vivo camera app. The extender works in sync with the phone’s telephoto sensor, delivering real optical zoom rather than software enhancement.

Real-World Performance: What Reviewers Say

Feedback from early testers and reviewers has been largely positive, though not without caveats:

Image Quality: Photography reviewers, including those from Digital Camera World, reported a substantial jump in detail compared to digital zoom. Colors, contrast, and sharpness benefit noticeably from ZEISS tuning.

Build & Handling: Many users praise the solid, almost “industrial-grade” construction, describing it as extremely durable.

Usability Trade-offs: The extender makes the phone bulky and awkward to use one-handed. Most users recommend pairing it with a tripod or Vivo’s optional grip accessory.

Autofocus Limitations: In low-light conditions, autofocus may struggle and hunt for focus, which can slow down shooting.

Availability Issues

One recurring complaint is limited regional availability. Although Vivo heavily promoted the extender alongside the X300 series, customers in some markets—particularly India—reported difficulty finding it for sale during the initial launch phase.

Where You Can Buy It (India)

As availability improves, the Vivo ZEISS 2.35x Telephoto Extender can now be found at select retailers:

Retailer                                       Approximate Price                   Stock Status

Sathya Retail                               ₹18,999                                    Available

Flipkart                                         Varies by offers                      Available

Reliance Digital                           ₹18,999                                   Available

Some stores, such as Croma, may still list the product as out of stock depending on location.

By - Aaradhay Sharma