Infinix recently launched its Smart 8 series of phones in November 2023. The Smart 8 positions as an entry-level device packed with impressive features.
With prices starting at ₦85,000 – ₦115,000 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage variant, the Smart 8 aims to offer value for money. This review will highlight the noteworthy and less impressive features of the Infinix Smart 8 to determine if it’s the right buy for you.
What’s in the box?
The package includes essentials like a 10-watt charger, USB C cable, earpiece, SIM ejector tool, and a clear plastic protective case.
What does it look like?
The Infinix Smart 8 sports a sleek design with rounded edges and a flat back, offering a comfortable grip. It also features a gradient finish on the back and runs on Android 13 OS, providing access to Google’s Office suite with minimal pre-installed bloatware that can be uninstalled.
The device boasts a 200% Super volume for immersive audio experiences, albeit lacking bass.
With its 5000mAh removable battery, the Smart 8 ensures all-day usage without the need for frequent charging. The 90Hz refresh rate display also delivers smooth performance, while the 13MP wide-angle rear camera and 8MP selfie camera produce decent image results. The smartphone also houses a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for quick and responsive biometric authentication.
Notably, the hole-punch camera gives the iPhone Dynamic Island effect. This cutout doubles as a notification indicator and charging status indicator. Infinix refers to this feature as the “Magic ring.”
The design of the Smart 8 isn’t something new if you’re familiar with what Infinix has been doing in the budget section for a while.
What’s inside the phone?
Equipped with the UNISOC T606 chipset that is capable of handling basic tasks, the Infinix Smart 8 offers smooth performance for everyday use, including social media surfing and casual gaming. The smartphone can handle games like Subway Surfer and Candy Crush without issues. But you will experience lagging if you try to play intensive games like CODM or Asphalt 9.
The 4GB RAM, expandable to 8GB via memory fusion, and up to 128GB storage space ensure decent levels of multitasking and storage capacity. If you run more than three apps simultaneously on the Infinix Smart 8 phone, they will most likely restart when you return to them.
Key Specs for the Infinix Smart 8
- 5000mAh Big Battery with 10W charging
- 6.6 Inches HD+ 90Hz Punch-Hole Display
- 8MP Selfie Camera with Flash
- 13MP Rear Camera with Dual Flash
- 64GB ROM + 4GB RAM
- Android T Go
- Fingerprint & Face Unlock
- Available in Shiny Gold, Timber Black, and Crystal Green color options
Pros
90Hz Refresh Rate: The display offers a smooth and responsive user experience, especially for gaming and scrolling.
Magic Ring Feature: The punch-hole notch for the selfie camera can show useful information and notifications, such as charging status, face unlock animation, and incoming calls.
Memory Fusion Feature: The phone can use the storage space to add up to 3GB of extra RAM, which can improve the performance and speed of the phone.
Reverse Wired Charging: The phone can charge other devices with a cable, which can be handy in emergencies or when traveling.
Cons
Slow Charging Speed: The phone only supports 10W wired charging, which can take a long time to fully charge the 5000mAh battery.
Bloatware: The phone has some pre-installed apps that may not be useful or necessary, and may consume storage space and battery life.
No Gyro-EIS or NFC: The phone lacks some sensors and connectivity features that may be useful for some apps or functions, such as VR, AR, or mobile payments.
Low Display Resolution: The phone has a HD+ resolution of 1612 x 720 pixels, which may not be very sharp or clear on a 6.6-inch screen.
No IP56 Rating: No IP rating for protection against water and dust, which can cause serious damage to the phone if exposed to water.
Pricing and Availability
The Infinix Smart 8 is priced attractively, starting at ₦85,000/$55 for the base model with 3GB RAM and 64GB storage and reaching ₦115,000/$71 for the 8GB RAM and 128GB storage version.
In Kenya, you can find the Infinix Smart 8 selling for a starting price of KSh 14,300 – KSh 16,000 on Phoneplace and all retail outlets in the country. In Nigeria, the smartphone is currently on sale in Slot, Konga, and other Infinix stores nationwide.
