In this article, we'll dive into the most commonly reported problems and bugs with the Infinix Hot 50i, as well as its overall usability. By the end, we’ll assess whether the phone is still a good value for money or if there are better alternatives in its price range.
1. Performance Problems: Sluggishness and App Freezes
The Infinix Hot 50i is powered by a UNISOC SC9863A chipset, which is designed for entry-level devices. While it handles basic tasks well, users often report sluggish performance and app freezes, particularly when multitasking or using heavier apps.
Key performance-related issues include:
- Frequent lag when switching between apps or opening new ones.
- App crashes or freezes, especially when running apps that require more memory, such as video streaming or gaming apps.
- Slow response times when navigating the user interface.
Possible solutions:
- Clear app caches regularly to free up memory and prevent slowdowns.
- Close background apps when not in use to conserve system resources.
- Use Lite versions of apps (like Facebook Lite or YouTube Go) to reduce memory load.
User feedback:
"The phone works well for basic tasks, but it tends to lag a lot when I have multiple apps open. Some apps freeze or take longer to load, which can be frustrating."
2. Battery Life: Mixed Reviews on Longevity and Charging Speeds
The 5000mAh battery in the Infinix Hot 50i is one of its most appealing features, promising all-day use for average tasks. However, some users have reported that the battery life doesn’t always meet expectations, especially under more intense usage. Additionally, there are complaints about slow charging times.
Common battery and charging issues include:
- Rapid battery drain when using apps that require constant data, such as streaming video or browsing the web.
- Slow charging speeds, particularly with the 10W charger included in the box, which can take over three hours to fully charge the phone.
- Battery percentage jumps or inconsistent readings, where the battery drops or increases unexpectedly.
Workarounds:
- Enable Battery Saver mode when the phone is not in active use to extend battery life.
- Avoid using battery-draining features like high brightness, GPS, or mobile data for long periods.
- Charge the phone overnight or during non-peak times to avoid frustration with slower charging speeds.
3. Display Issues: Brightness and Touch Sensitivity
The 6.6-inch HD+ display on the Infinix Hot 50i offers good visibility for most daily tasks, but it has its drawbacks. Users have reported issues with brightness levels and touch sensitivity, particularly in outdoor settings or under harsh lighting.
Common display problems include:
- Low maximum brightness, making it difficult to see the screen under direct sunlight.
- Touch sensitivity problems, where the screen occasionally fails to register taps or gestures, especially along the edges.
- Ghost touches, where the screen registers unintended touches, usually after prolonged usage or when the phone gets warm.
Suggested fixes:
- Manually adjust brightness rather than relying on automatic settings to optimize for outdoor use.
- Consider applying a screen protector, as this can sometimes improve touch sensitivity.
- Restart the phone or perform a calibration using third-party apps if ghost touches persist.
4. Camera Performance: Basic Setup with Mixed Results
The Infinix Hot 50i features a basic 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, which are sufficient for quick snapshots but don’t deliver the best results under challenging conditions. Users often express frustration with the camera’s performance in low-light environments and slow focus times.
Key camera issues include:
- Grainy and underexposed photos in low-light conditions or indoors.
- Slow autofocus, making it difficult to capture moving subjects or quick moments.
- Shutter lag, where there is a noticeable delay between pressing the shutter button and the photo being taken, which can result in blurry images.
Workarounds:
- Use the phone’s flash for better low-light results or opt for photos in well-lit areas.
- Tap on the screen to manually focus on your subject before taking the shot.
- Download a third-party camera app with more advanced settings for improved performance and photo quality.
User complaints:
"The camera quality is acceptable during the day, but it really struggles indoors or at night. The focus is slow, and sometimes the photos come out blurry."
5. Software Bugs and Glitches
Running on Android 11 (Go Edition) with Infinix’s XOS 7.6 interface, the software is relatively smooth for a budget phone, but some users have reported experiencing bugs and glitches that affect the overall experience.
Common software bugs include:
- App crashes or force closes, especially with third-party apps that require more memory.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity issues, where the phone intermittently disconnects from networks or devices.
- Notifications not showing up on time or being delayed, particularly for messaging apps like WhatsApp.
Potential fixes:
- Regularly check for software updates through the phone’s settings, as manufacturers often release bug fixes.
- Restart the phone to clear temporary glitches, especially after extended use.
- Perform a factory reset if problems persist, but make sure to back up your data first.
6. Speaker and Audio Issues
The Infinix Hot 50i has a single bottom-firing speaker, which delivers loud enough sound for most environments, but users have noted some audio quality issues when listening to music, watching videos, or making calls on speakerphone.
Reported audio issues include:
- Distorted sound at higher volumes, with a tinny or muffled effect.
- Low call quality on speakerphone, where voices sound distant or unclear.
- Audio lag when using Bluetooth headphones, particularly when watching videos or playing games.
Suggested solutions:
- Lower the volume slightly to reduce distortion, as pushing the speaker to its max can lead to quality degradation.
- Use wired headphones or external speakers for better sound quality, especially when listening to music.
- Ensure that the Bluetooth codec is optimized for your headphones by checking the settings.
Conclusion: Is the Infinix Hot 50i Worth Buying?
The Infinix Hot 50i is a budget-friendly device that checks off the basics for users who need a smartphone primarily for calls, texting, light browsing, and social media. It’s also great for users who prioritize long battery life, as the 5000mAh battery can last through a full day of moderate use. However, it does come with several trade-offs.
The pros:
- Affordable price for a smartphone with decent battery life and a large screen.
- Android 11 (Go Edition) allows for lightweight app usage, making it suitable for first-time smartphone users or light users.
- Simple design and easy-to-use interface.
The cons:
- Performance slowdowns and app freezes, especially with multitasking or using heavy apps.
- Poor camera quality, especially in low light and when taking quick photos.
- Display brightness and touch sensitivity issues, which may frustrate users who rely on their phone in outdoor settings.
Should you buy it? The Infinix Hot 50i is worth considering if you are looking for a low-cost smartphone for basic use. However, if you plan to use it for more intensive tasks like gaming, multitasking, or capturing high-quality photos, this phone may not meet your expectations.
Alternatives:
- Xiaomi Redmi A2: A similarly priced phone but with better software optimization and performance for light users.
- Realme C30: Offers better build quality and a slightly better camera setup in the same budget range.
- Samsung Galaxy A03 Core: A reliable budget phone with better customer support and software updates.
In conclusion, the Infinix Hot 50i serves its purpose as a low-cost device, but there are better options available for users seeking more performance, camera quality, and software reliability at a similar price point.