Unveiling The Infinix Smart 8 (India): A Dive Into Entry-Level Brilliance

Body and Design: Entry-Level Elegance

The Infinix Smart 8 (India) boasts dimensions of 163.6×75.6×8.5 mm, embracing a glass front and a sleek plastic back framed by more plastic. Coming in Galaxy White, Rainbow Blue, Shiny Gold, and Timber Black, this phone isn't just about tech; it's a fashion statement. Here are the relevant specs:

When it comes to the body of the Infinix Smart 8 (India), it's all about finding that sweet spot between comfort and style. With those dimensions and a weight of 189 g, this phone strikes a balance that caters to both usability and portability.

The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, making it ideal for extended usage without feeling like you're carrying a brick. Slip it into your pocket or toss it into your bag; the Smart 8 (India)'s sleek dimensions make it a companion that won't weigh you down.

Now, let's talk materials. The Infinix Smart 8 (India) rocks a glass front paired with a plastic back and frame. While glass adds a touch of sophistication to the front, the plastic components play a crucial role in keeping the phone budget-friendly.

Plastic is lighter than alternatives like metal and glass, contributing to the overall comfort of the phone. It also tends to handle drops better, minimizing the risk of shattering. The matte finish on the plastic back resists fingerprints, keeping your phone looking pristine.

However, being real, plastic may not scream premium like metal or glass does. Some users may miss the cold touch of metal, but the compromise brings a phone that won't make you wince every time it slips from your grasp.

The plastic back, available in Galaxy White, Rainbow Blue, Shiny Gold, and Timber Black, brings both flair and functionality. Galaxy White exudes a clean and modern vibe, Rainbow Blue adds a playful touch, Shiny Gold screams elegance, and Timber Black brings a classic, understated charm. So, whether you're a trendsetter, a fashionista, or someone who prefers the classics, there's a color for every personality.

In essence, the Infinix Smart 8 (India)'s body design is tailored for those who value comfort and practicality without compromising on style. Whether you're a busy professional, a student always on the move, or someone who simply appreciates a phone that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, the Smart 8 (India) aims to be your reliable companion. After all, why choose between style and comfort when you can have both?

If we compare the phone with the predecessor Smart 7 (India), the latter was powered by Android 12, featuring the XOS 12 UI on top. The new version has gotten a bit smaller, slimmer, and lighter. The Smart 7 (India) was 164.2×75.6×9.4 mm and 207 g. Material-wise, it too sported a glass front and a plastic back and frame.

IP Rating

(Related: IP ratings explained.)

Ah, the lack of an official IP rating on the Infinix Smart 8 (India) - a puzzle for many smartphone enthusiasts. It's not uncommon for budget smartphones to skip the official waterproof badge. These phones often focus on delivering key features at an affordable price point, and unfortunately, achieving a certified level of water resistance can add to the manufacturing costs. So, the absence of an IP rating on the Smart 8 (India) isn't surprising in the budget-friendly realm.

Now, should you, as a potential buyer, be concerned? It depends on your lifestyle. If you're the type to accidentally drop your phone into puddles or have a habit of texting in the rain, you might want to exercise caution. However, for the average users who treat their device with care, it shouldn't be a deal-breaker.

To safeguard your device from the environmental elements, here are some practical tips:

• Protective Case: A good-quality protective case can be your phone's armor against accidental spills and minor impacts. Choose one that offers a raised lip around the screen for added protection.
• Screen Protector: A tempered glass screen protector is like a shield for your display. It not only guards against scratches but can also provide an extra layer of defense in case of a sudden meeting with a puddle.
• Be Mindful Around Water: As your phone does not have an official IP rating, exercising caution around water is wise. Keep it away from pools, sinks, and rainy days. If it does get a splash, a quick wipe should suffice.

In essence, a little proactive care can go a long way in keeping your Smart 8 (India) in top-notch condition. While it might not be ready for a deep-sea dive, with the right precautions, it can certainly weather the everyday storms of life. So, suit it up with a protective case, slap on a screen protector, and go forth without the worry of water woes!

For comparison, the predecessor Smart 7 (India) did not come with an IP rating, either.

Display: Where Visual Brilliance Meets Everyday Practicality

(Related: Know more about the various kinds of displays and screen specs.)

The 6.6-inch IPS LCD display with a buttery smooth 90 Hz refresh rate ensures your content comes alive with vibrant colors. With a resolution of 720×1612 pixels, the Infinix Smart 8 (India) carves a niche in the budget-friendly segment, offering an immersive visual experience.

Image credit: Infinix

Here are the relevant specs:

Prepare to be captivated by the visual prowess of the Infinix Smart 8 (India)'s IPS LCD display. In the ever-evolving landscape of smartphone screens, the Smart 8 (India) holds its own, offering a delightful visual experience that caters to both entertainment enthusiasts and everyday users. IPS LCD (In-Plane Switching Liquid Crystal Display) is the unsung hero behind the Smart 8 (India)'s vibrant and sharp visuals. Renowned for its wide viewing angles and accurate color reproduction, IPS technology ensures that whether you're watching a movie with friends or checking your messages on the go, the display quality remains consistent.

The Smart 8 (India) flaunts a smooth 90 Hz refresh rate, elevating your scrolling, gaming, and overall navigation experience. This higher refresh rate means smoother transitions between frames, reducing motion blur and enhancing the overall fluidity of the display. It's a subtle touch that, once experienced, is hard to go without.

The Smart 8 (India) opts for a resolution of 720×1612 pixels, presenting a balanced approach for its budget-friendly segment. This resolution provides a crisp and clear display, making everyday tasks a pleasure. Text appears sharp, images are detailed, and videos are enjoyable, striking a fine balance between visual clarity and power efficiency.

The 720p resolution of the Smart 8 (India) caters well to everyday content consumption, including social media scrolling, web browsing, and video watching. Text is legible, and images look vibrant, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a smooth user experience without the need for ultra-high resolution.

However, for users deeply invested in graphic-intensive gaming or content creation, a higher resolution display might be preferable. A higher resolution ensures finer details are visible, which is particularly beneficial for tasks that demand precision.

Brightness matters, and the Smart 8 (India) delivers with a peak brightness of 500 nits. This feature ensures visibility even in challenging lighting conditions, allowing you to use your phone comfortably whether you're basking in the sun or navigating a dimly lit room.

In conclusion, the Infinix Smart 8 (India)'s display is a testament to finding the right balance. It offers a delightful visual experience for everyday use, making it an excellent choice for those who seek a budget-friendly phone without compromising on display quality. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite series or scrolling through your photo gallery, the Smart 8 (India)'s display is poised to deliver a visual treat without burning a hole in your pocket.

For comparison, the predecessor Smart 7 (India) featured a similar display, but with the standard screen refresh rate of 60 Hz.

Networks

(Related: Cellular networks explained.)

Navigating through the tech landscape, the Infinix Smart 8 (India) supports the GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies.

GSM and HSPA are the stalwarts, providing 2G and 3G connectivity, respectively. Then there's LTE, the foundation of modern 4G networks, delivering faster internet speeds and improved call quality.

SIM

The dual Nano-SIM (dual stand-by) setup keeps you connected, making the Infinix Smart 8 (India) an ideal companion for those on the go.

Chipset: Power-Packed Performance

Powered by the Mediatek Helio G36 chipset and fueled by an octa-core CPU (comprising two types of cores), this phone promises a smooth and responsive performance. The PowerVR GE8320 GPU ensures your gaming and multimedia experiences are nothing short of delightful. Here are the relevant specs:

At the heart of the Smart 8 (India)'s performance is the Mediatek Helio G36 chipset. Engineered with efficiency and speed in mind, this chipset is tailored for the demands of modern smartphone users.

The octa-core CPU is the beating heart of the Smart 8 (India)'s processing might. It is divided into two types of cores, with different roles.

The four high-performance, 2.2 GHz Cortex-A53 cores handle tasks that demand raw processing power. Think of them as the sprinters in a race, tackling resource-intensive applications, gaming, and multitasking with ease. From launching apps swiftly to ensuring a seamless gaming experience, these cores are the workhorses of your daily tasks.

The remaining four efficiency, 1.7 GHz Cortex-A53 cores are the marathon runners, designed to handle lighter tasks while sipping power conservatively. They kick into action during less demanding activities like browsing, messaging, or idling, ensuring a balanced power distribution for optimal energy efficiency.

Together, this octa-core setup orchestrates a symphony of performance, adapting to the demands of your usage scenario with finesse.

When it comes to rendering graphics and ensuring a smooth visual experience, the PowerVR GE8320 GPU steps into the limelight. While not a heavyweight contender in the GPU arena, it's more than capable of handling day-to-day graphics demands, from casual gaming to multimedia playback.

The Infinix Smart 8 (India)'s processing prowess is tailored for everyday users who prioritize a smooth and responsive smartphone experience. From social media browsing to moderate gaming, the octa-core setup and the PowerVR GE8320 GPU handle these tasks with finesse.

However, if you're a power user engaged in heavy gaming, resource-intensive applications, or content creation, you might find yourself craving a bit more horsepower. The Smart 8 (India) is designed for efficiency and balance, making it a stellar choice for the average user but may fall short for those with more demanding digital appetites.

In essence, the Infinix Smart 8 (India) strikes a commendable balance, offering a robust performance package that caters to the needs of budget-conscious users seeking a reliable and capable smartphone for their daily adventures in the digital realm.

For comparison, the Smart 8 (India) sees a substantial upgrade over the predecessor Smart 7 (India) in this department. The Smart 7 (India) sported the Unisoc SC9863A1 (28 nm) chiset, housing an octa-core CPU (4×1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 + 4×1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) and the IMG8322 GPU.

Storage Galore: Memory Masterclass

The Smart 8 (India) offers a dedicated microSDXC slot, providing flexibility to expand storage. Here are the relevant specs:

Offering 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal storage, which is more than adequate for the Android 13 Go edition, this phone strikes a balance between performance and space.

For comparison, the predecessor Smart 7 (India) came with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of eMMC 5.1 internal storage.

Camera Capabilities: Through the Lens

The camera setup on the Infinix Smart 8 (India) doesn't disappoint. The 50 MP wide lens, complemented by a 0.08 MP auxiliary lens, promises detailed and vivid shots. With features like Ring-LED flash, panorama, and HDR, your photography game is set to elevate. The 1080p video recording at 30 fps ensures you capture life's moments in stunning clarity.

Image credit: Infinix

The 8 MP front camera adds charm to your selfies, making your social media presence truly shine.

Battery and Charging: Endurance Personified

(Related: Battery specs and charging types explained.)

Here are the relevant specs:

A massive 5000 mAh non-removable battery fuels the Smart 8 (India), promising endurance that won't let you down. With 10 W wired charging and the added convenience of reverse wired charging, you're always in control.

For comparison, the older Smart 7 (India) featured a 6000 mAh battery supporting 10 W wired charging (but no reverse charging).

Sound

Here are the relevant specs:

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of audio excellence, thanks to the DTS sound processing featured in the Infinix Smart 8 (India). DTS (Digital Theater Systems) is a series of audio technologies renowned for their ability to deliver high-quality, immersive sound experiences. When a device sports DTS sound processing, that, in simple terms, refers to the application of these advanced audio technologies to enhance and optimize the audio output of the device.

DTS sound processing works its magic by refining the audio signals, bringing out the subtleties and nuances in the sound. This means that whether you're listening to your favorite music, watching movies, or engaging in a gaming session, the audio quality is elevated, providing a more enjoyable and immersive experience. DTS creates a sense of space and dimensionality in the audio. This is particularly beneficial when watching movies or playing games, as the sound feels more expansive, allowing you to pinpoint the direction of audio cues with greater precision.

Also, DTS technology is designed to optimize audio based on the type of content you're consuming. Whether it's music, movies, or gaming, a device with DTS sound processing ensures that the audio is finely tuned to deliver the best possible experience for each scenario.

In essence, DTS sound processing on a device is more than just a feature - it's a gateway to a richer, more immersive audio experience. From the thumping beats of your favorite tracks to the nuanced dialogues in movies, DTS ensures that every sonic detail is presented with clarity and precision, turning your device into a portable audio powerhouse.

For comparison, the older Smart 7 (India) also had a single loudspeaker and it supported the headphone jack.

Connectivity

The Smart 8 (India) sports Bluetooth 4.2, ensuring a seamless connection, whether you're connecting to headphones, speakers, or other devices. With A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) for high-quality audio streaming, your Bluetooth experience reaches new heights.

Lost? Not with the positioning capabilities of the Smart 8 (India)! It supports GPS. This means your device always knows where you are.

However, if NFC is on your must-have list, you might want to explore other options.

Last but not least, the trusty USB-C 2.0 - the universal connector. Whether you're charging your device, transferring files, or connecting to external devices, USB Type-C 2.0 ensures a reliable connection. It's the jack-of-all-trades, allowing you to expand your device's capabilities and stay connected to the wider world of technology.

Sensors

The Infinix Smart 8 (India) comes equipped with the following sensors:

• Proximity Sensor: Detects the presence or movement of an object (say, with infrared, sound, light, or electromagnetic fields) without physically contacting it. It is used, for example, to turn off the screen when you position your device close to your ear while making a call.
• Fingerprint Sensor: Used for quick and secure unlocking. It is side-facing in the Smart 8 (India).
• Accelerometer: The accelerometer detects changes in the device's orientation and acceleration. If you tilt, shake, or move your device, the accelerometer knows.
• Compass: The compass determines your device's orientation. It is essential for navigation apps, map orientation, and augmented reality experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is Infinix Smart 8 (India) release date?

  The Infinix Smart 8 (India) has been announced on the 13th January, 2024. It is expected to release later in the same month.

• What is Infinix Smart 8 (India) price?

  The Infinix Smart 8 (India) is priced INR 7499 (about USD 90).