Highlights

• Launched at Rs 6,999, the Infinix Smart 8 Plus offers exceptional value for budget buyers.
• Boasts a robust 6000mAh battery for extended use.
• Features a 50MP Dual AI Camera setup for quality photography.
• Supports a 90Hz refresh rate on a 6.6-inch HD+ display for smooth visuals.

The sub-Rs 10,000 smartphone market in India is bustling with activity, showcasing a fierce competition among manufacturers striving to offer the best blend of features, performance, and affordability.

Infinix, a brand known for its value-driven approach, has been particularly active in this segment.

Earlier this year, the Infinix Smart 8 made its debut, and now, hot on its heels, comes the Infinix Smart 8 Plus.

Priced at a competitive Rs 6,999, inclusive of bank offers, the Smart 8 Plus is positioned as a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.

In this review, I’ll delve into whether the Infinix Smart 8 Plus stands out as the entry-level smartphone to beat.

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Pros and Cons

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Key Specs

• Processor: MediaTek Helio G36, a combination of 2.2 GHz and 1.8 GHz quad-core setups.
• RAM: Up to 4GB, expandable to 8GB via virtual swap.
• Storage: 128GB onboard, expandable.
• Display: 6.6-inch HD+ with a 90Hz refresh rate.
• Camera: 50MP Dual AI Camera, 8MP selfie camera with front flash.
• Battery: 6000mAh with 18W charging.
• Software: XOS skin atop Android 13 Go, minimal bloatware.

Unboxing the Infinix Smart 8 Plus

Unboxing the Infinix Smart 8 Plus, I was greeted with the familiar yet reassuring sight of the standard smartphone package, but with some notable inclusions.

The box contained the phone itself, a USB Type-C cable, and a charging brick—essentials for any modern smartphone.

This addition to this, you also get a clear plastic case, recognizing the immediate need to protect the device from the inevitable bumps and scratches of daily use.

Alongside these, the usual paperwork and a SIM ejector tool-kit were also present, rounding off a well-equipped package that adds value right from the start.

Infinix Smart 8 Plus Unboxing Video

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Design and Display

Holding the Smart 8 Plus for the first time, you can see it takes almost all its design inspiration from the Infinix Smart 8.

The device sports a Timber Texture Finish, giving it a distinctive look and feel that sets it apart from the usual design language seen in this price range.

Available in three colours – Galaxy White, Timber Black, and Shiny Gold – it offers enough variety to suit different tastes.

The robust plastic unibody chassis and the Starfall Design not only contribute to its sturdy build but also elevate its visual appeal.

Despite its solid construction, I felt that the phone is surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to hold, thanks to its well-thought-out ergonomics and flat edges that ensure a secure grip.

Every standard port and button is in place, making for a user-friendly physical interface.

Turning the device on, the 6.6-inch HD+ Punch-Hole Display with a 90Hz refresh rate greeted me.

While it may not be the brightest screen I’ve encountered, its smoothness and responsiveness are commendable for its price point.

The Interactive Magic Ring feature, reminiscent of the iPhone’s dynamic island, though not as intuitive, adds a unique touch to the user experience.

The lack of HDR certification is understandable given the budget constraints, and the IP53 splash resistance is a welcome addition for added durability.

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Camera Overview

Diving into the camera capabilities of the Infinix Smart 8 Plus, my expectations were cautiously optimistic, given its competitive price point.

After spending some quality time with the device, here’s my take on what the camera setup has to offer.

The Smart 8 Plus is equipped with a 50MP Dual AI Camera, complemented by a Quad LED Ring Flash, a setup that promises to capture moments beautifully. During daylight, the primary shooter doesn’t disappoint.

Images come out with moderately sharp details, and the colors pop, thanks to the AI sensor that seems to boost saturation levels just right.

The HDR isn’t the broadest I’ve seen, but considering the price tag of Rs 6,999, it’s more than adequate.

However, not all is perfect.

The shutter speed could be quicker, and focusing on subjects sometimes feels a tad slower than I’d like.

This isn’t a deal-breaker but something to note for those moments when you need to capture something quickly.

The Pro camera mode does add some functionality, allowing for a bit more control over your shots, although it’s not as expansive as what you might find in higher-end models.

Low-light photography, as is often the case with budget smartphones, presents its challenges.

The Quad-LED ring flash does come in handy, illuminating subjects better than many of its peers in this price range.

Yet, the Super Night Mode doesn’t significantly enhance detail retrieval in dim conditions as much as I hoped.

The selfie game is also modestly good, thanks to its 8MP front camera. It delivers decent shots of facial features, and the exposure balance is commendable, for a sub Rs 8,000 phone.

The front flash is a boon for low-light conditions, ensuring your selfies are well-lit regardless of the environment.

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Camera Samples

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Video Samples

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Performance and Features Insights

Diving into the performance and features of the Infinix Smart 8 Plus, I was curious to see how this device stacks up.

With a MediaTek Helio G36 processor at its core, complemented by up to 4GB of RAM, expandable to 8GB via virtual swap, the specifications initially paint a promising picture for an entry-level smartphone.

The Helio G36, featuring a 2.2 GHz quad-core and a 1.8 GHz quad-core setup, is on par with the Unisoc T616 SoC found in several recent budget-friendly offerings.

This similarity set the stage for my expectations: usable performance tailored for everyday use.

In practice, the Smart 8 Plus manages routine tasks like browsing, email, and social media with about as much ease as I could expect from an entry-level device.

When multitasking or navigating more demanding applications, the occasional stuttering is expected at this price point, underscoring the limitations inherent to budget smartphones.

It’s also worth noting, though, that users looking to engage in heavy GPU-intensive activities or open multiple Chrome tabs might find the system pushed to its limits.

My attempts to run benchmarking apps on the Smart 8 Plus provided a fair indication of its capabilities, aligning with my hands-on experience.

As for the audio output, it’s respectable for the device’s price range, though I found myself missing the dual-speaker setup of its predecessor for a more immersive audio experience.

The Smart 8 Plus supports 4G networks, ensuring seamless connectivity, a critical aspect for any smartphone user in today’s digital age.

My tests on Airtel’s Delhi network confirmed as much, with consistent performance across the board.

The device also features a responsive and reliable side-mounted fingerprint sensor for security, alongside facial recognition for unlocking.

While the latter is somewhat less reliable, particularly in low-light conditions, it’s a valuable addition to the phone’s security features.

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Software and Battery Life

The Infinix Smart 8 Plus runs on Infinix’s custom XOS skin atop Android 13 Go.

My first impressions of the software experience were quite positive.

Infinix’s conscious effort to minimize bloatware is evident, leaving the device with only essential official and Google apps pre-loaded.

This decision greatly contributes to a cleaner, more user-friendly interface, making navigation and general use a breeze for even the most novice users.

The standout feature for me, however, has to be the 6000mAh battery.

It’s not every day that you come across such a robust battery in the sub-Rs 10,000 segment.

During my usage, the device consistently delivered around 7 hours of screen-on-time, covering activities like web browsing, email checking, and streaming videos on YouTube.

This level of endurance ensures that the Smart 8 Plus can easily handle a day’s worth of tasks on a single charge, which is a significant plus for heavy users.

On the flip side, the charging speed leaves a bit to be desired.

The device supports 18W fast charging, but it takes nearly three hours to fully charge the battery from 0 to 100 percent.

While this may seem slow, especially when we’re getting accustomed to faster-charging solutions, it’s somewhat expected given the large capacity of the battery.

Nonetheless, for a phone priced at Rs 6,999, this charging speed is relatively decent andaligns well with the expectations for the budget segment.

Infinix Smart 8 Plus: Final Verdict

After spending considerable time with the Infinix Smart 8 Plus, and diving deep into its design, camera capabilities, performance, and software, it’s time to sum up my experience.

Positioned aggressively in the fiercely competitive sub-Rs 10,000 smartphone market in India, the Smart 8 Plus comes forth as a proper entry-level contender.

The device stands out as a solid choice for those seeking a feature-packed smartphone without denting their wallet.

It brings to the table a well-rounded package that hits many of the right notes for an entry-level smartphone.

Performance and photography are not its strong suit but given its very minimal hit on your wallet, I feel that it is a sacrifice worth living by.

Whether it’s your entry-level smartphone of choice will depend on your priorities, but it’s certainly worth considering.

5 Reasons to Buy

• Competitive Price: At Rs 6,999, including bank offers, it’s hard to overlook the value it offers.
• Robust Battery Life: The 6000mAh battery ensures prolonged usage without frequent charges.
• Clean Software Experience: The minimally bloated XOS provides a smooth user interface.
• Expandable RAM: Unique for its segment, offering enhanced multitasking capabilities.
• Decent Camera for the Price: The 50MP primary shooter and various camera modes are impressive for an entry-level device. 

3 Reasons Not to Buy

• Slow Charging: Taking nearly three hours to fully charge might test your patience.
• Performance Limitations: Not the best pick for heavy gaming or intensive multitasking.
• Average Low-Light Photography: Struggles in dim conditions despite the Quad-LED flash

Top 5 Alternatives

Moto E13

• Processor: Octa-core Unisoc T606
• RAM/Storage: 2GB RAM, 64GB storage
• Display: 6.5-inch IPS LCD, 60Hz
• Camera: 13MP rear, 5MP front
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Price: Rs. 6,190

Realme C33

• Processor: Unisoc T612
• RAM/Storage: 3GB RAM, up to 64GB storage
• Display: 6.5-inch LCD, 60Hz
• Camera: 50MP + 0.3MP dual rear, 5MP front
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Price: Rs. 8,940

Infinix Hot 30i

• Processor: MediaTek Helio G37
• RAM/Storage: 8GB RAM, up to 128GB storage
• Display: 6.6-inch IPS LCD, 90Hz
• Camera: 50MP + 0.08MP dual rear, 5MP front
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Price: Rs. 8,240

POCO M2

• Processor: MediaTek Helio G80
• RAM/Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
• Display: 6.53-inch IPS LCD, 60Hz
• Camera: Quad rear (13MP+8MP+5MP+2MP), 8MP front
• Battery: 5000mAh, fast charging
• Price: Rs. 9,989

Lava Yuva 2 Pro

• Processor: UnisocT606
• RAM/Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB storage
• Display: 6.5-inch, 720×1600 pixels
• Camera: 13MP rear, 5MP front
• Battery: 5000mAh
• Price: Rs. 7,620

My Mobile India Rating

• Design – 4/5
• Display – 3.5/5
• Cameras – 3/5
• Performance – 3.5/5
• Software – 4/5
• Battery 3.5/5
• Overall – 3.5/5

FAQs

What makes the Infinix Smart 8 Plus stand out in the budget smartphone segment?

The Infinix Smart 8 Plus distinguishes itself with its affordable pricing, powerful battery, and high-resolution camera, making it a compelling choice for value-conscious consumers.

How does the camera performance of the Infinix Smart 8 Plus compare to other budget smartphones?

With a 50MP Dual AI Camera, the Infinix Smart 8 Plus aims to deliver superior photography capabilities, offering crisp, vibrant photos that stand out among budget smartphones.

What battery life can users expect from the Infinix Smart 8 Plus?

Users can enjoy extended battery life thanks to the 6000mAh battery, ensuring that the device can easily last through a day of heavy use without needing a recharge.

Is the Infinix Smart 8 Plus suitable for gaming and multimedia consumption?

Yes, the MediaTek Helio G36 processor, coupled with a 90Hz display, makes the Infinix Smart 8 Plus a solid choice for casual gaming and smooth video playback.

How does the Infinix Smart 8 Plus enhance the user experience with its software?

Running on Android 13 Go with XOS skin, the Infinix Smart 8 Plus offers a clean, bloatware-minimized interface, enhancing usability and ensuring a fluid user experience.

Infinix Smart 8 Plus launches at 6,999*, features 6000 mAh battery. Details?

• Priced at INR 6,999, the latest smartphone by Infinix features an elegant and sophisticated timbre texture
• The new Smart 8 Plus includes a 50 MP Dual AI Camera with Quad LED ring flash and an 8 MP front camera with LED flash
• Long life with a 6000mAh battery with 18W Type-C fast charging port
• Features 128GB internal storage and up to 8GB of RAM (4 GB +4GB Virtual RAM)
• Immersive visuals and rich sound with a 90Hz Punch-Hole Display and DTS Sound Processing
• Fast and secure with side fingerprint and face unlock, powered by the advanced MediaTek Helio G36 Octa Core Processor
• Runs on the latest Android 13 Go
• The smartphone will be available on sale from 9th March 2024on Flipkart

Infinix, today announced the launch of its latest masterpiece, the Smart 8 Plus. Featuring a massive 6000mAh battery with 18W Type C Fast Charging, the Smart 8 Plus stands as a powerhouse in the smartphone domain.

Priced at INR 6,999*, the latest smartphone by Infinix offers a plethora of features that combine style, innovation, and performance.

Is Infinix Smart 8 Plus Aesthetically Pleasing ?

Embodying elegance and sophistication, the Smart 8 Plus boasts a premium design featuring a timber texture finish, setting it apart as an attractive option that is both aesthetic and modern in the smartphone market.

The Smart 8 Plus will be available in 3 colour variants- Galaxy White, Timber Black and Shiny Gold.

Does Infinix Smart 8 Plus unleash Your Creativity with Superior Imaging?

Capture life’s moments with breathtaking clarity and detail using the Smart 8 Plus’s 50 MP Dual AI Camera, complemented by a Quad-LED ring flash for professional-grade photography in any lighting condition.

For stunning selfies, the 8 MP front camera with LED flash ensures users always look their best.

Does Infinix Smart 8 Plus have mesmerising Display & Immersive Experience?

Users enjoy an immersive experience in a world of vibrant visuals with the Smart 8 Plus’s smooth and hypnotic 90Hz Punch-Hole display.

The innovative Magic Ring atop the screen adds a touch of magic, displaying essential information like battery percentage, charging status, and in-call time, ensuring you stay connected and informed at all times.

Does Infinix Smart 8 Plus give secure, Seamless Performance ?

The Smart 8 Plus’s side-mounted fingerprint scanner and facial recognition technology ensure the highest level of safety and security for users’ data.

Powered by the MediaTek Helio G36 2.2 Ghz Octa Core Processor, the Smart 8 Plus delivers lightning-fast performance and seamless multitasking capabilities.

Does Infinix Smart 8 Plus have Massive Storage & Immersive Sound?

With 128 GB of internal storage, up to 8 GB RAM via MemFusion technology and support for up to 2TB Micro SD, the Smart 8 Plus ensures boundless space for your photos, videos, and apps.

Delve deep into an unparalleled audio experience with DTS Sound Processing, delivering rich and immersive sound quality.

Can I Experience the Future of Smartphones through Infinix Smart 8 Plus?

The Smart 8 Plus runs on Android 13 Go (XOS 13), offering a seamless and intuitive user experience.

With its blend of innovative features, premium design, and unmatched performance, the Smart 8 Plus redefines smartphone excellence and stands as a prime example of Infinix’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology to its customers.

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