The Infinix Smart 8 Plus is positioned as a budget-friendly smartphone, offering solid features for users on a tight budget. However, like most budget devices, it comes with its share of limitations. This article will outline the most commonly reported issues with the Infinix Smart 8 Plus, covering everything from software glitches to hardware shortcomings, and offer potential solutions. By the end, we’ll assess whether this phone is worth buying or if better alternatives exist in the same price range.
Performance Issues and Software Glitches
Lag and Sluggish Performance
Many users report that the Infinix Smart 8 Plus suffers from lag and slow performance during daily use. While it’s adequate for basic tasks, the phone struggles with multitasking, and even simple tasks may feel sluggish over time.
Common Causes:
- Limited RAM: With a lower amount of RAM, the device often struggles with running multiple apps.
- Budget Processor: The low-end processor isn’t equipped to handle intensive tasks, making it more prone to slowdowns.
User Feedback:
"After a few weeks, the phone became noticeably slower. Even sending messages and browsing feels sluggish sometimes."
Solutions:
- Clear Cache Regularly: Cleaning up cached data can help free up memory, leading to smoother performance.
- Limit Background Processes: Avoid running multiple apps in the background to conserve RAM and reduce lag.
- Factory Reset: If the phone becomes unusably slow, performing a factory reset may provide temporary relief.
App Crashes and Freezing
App crashes are another common complaint, with users reporting that certain apps close unexpectedly or freeze during use. This is particularly problematic for resource-heavy apps like games or certain social media platforms.
Possible Causes:
- Insufficient Memory: Low RAM and storage can lead to app crashes, especially when running larger applications.
- Software Compatibility Issues: Apps may not be fully optimized for the phone’s hardware, leading to unexpected crashes.
Solutions:
- Update Apps and OS: Ensuring that both apps and the operating system are up to date can minimize compatibility issues.
- Use Lite Versions: Many popular apps, like Facebook and Messenger, offer “Lite” versions that use fewer resources and perform better on budget devices.
- Uninstall Unused Apps: Removing unnecessary apps can free up memory and reduce the likelihood of app crashes.
System Updates and Software Bugs
Budget devices like the Infinix Smart 8 Plus may not receive regular software updates, leading to issues with compatibility and overall system stability. Some users report that the device doesn’t receive timely updates, which leaves bugs unresolved and leads to performance drops over time.
Tips:
- Manually Check for Updates: Regularly checking for updates can help ensure the latest security patches and system improvements.
- Consider Third-Party ROMs: Advanced users might consider installing third-party ROMs, though this is not recommended for those unfamiliar with the process.
Battery Life and Charging Issues
Battery Draining Quickly
The Infinix Smart 8 Plus has a decent battery size, but some users report rapid battery drainage, especially when using data, streaming, or gaming. Battery drain can be particularly frustrating when users need their phone for long periods without access to a charger.
Causes:
- Background Apps: Apps running in the background continuously consume power, contributing to rapid battery depletion.
- Screen Brightness: High screen brightness and extended screen-on time can also drain the battery.
Tips for Extending Battery Life:
- Enable Power Saving Mode: This can help prolong battery life by limiting background activity and reducing performance.
- Close Background Apps: Use the recent apps menu to close apps you aren’t actively using.
- Lower Screen Brightness: Reducing brightness or using adaptive brightness can significantly save battery life.
- Turn off Location Services: GPS and location services consume battery, so disable them when not needed.
Slow Charging
Some users report that the Smart 8 Plus charges slowly, even when using the original charger. This issue can be especially inconvenient if you rely on a quick charge before heading out.
Solutions:
- Use Original Charger: Ensure you are using the official Infinix charger and cable, as third-party chargers may not deliver the necessary power.
- Check for Charging Port Debris: Dust and debris in the charging port can interfere with the connection. Gently clean it using a soft brush or compressed air.
- Avoid Heavy Use While Charging: Using the phone while it’s charging can slow down the process, as it simultaneously drains power.
Display and Touchscreen Issues
Unresponsive Touchscreen
Some users find that the touchscreen on the Infinix Smart 8 Plus occasionally becomes unresponsive. This can make it challenging to type, swipe, or perform other basic tasks on the device.
Common Causes:
- Software Glitch: Certain apps or settings can interfere with touchscreen responsiveness.
- Dirt or Moisture on the Screen: Any residue on the screen can cause the touch sensor to misinterpret inputs.
Suggested Fixes:
- Restart the Device: Restarting the phone can often resolve temporary touchscreen issues.
- Clean the Screen: Wipe the screen with a microfiber cloth to remove any dirt or moisture.
- Remove Screen Protector: If using a screen protector, ensure it’s well-aligned and not impacting touch sensitivity. Some low-quality screen protectors can interfere with touch sensitivity.
Display Quality Issues
Although the Infinix Smart 8 Plus has a decent display for its price range, some users report problems such as poor color accuracy, ghosting, or screen flickering. This can be particularly annoying when watching videos or using the phone in low-light conditions.
User Feedback:
"The screen quality isn’t the best; sometimes I see lines and flickering, which makes it hard to enjoy videos or read text."
Solutions:
- Reduce Brightness: Lowering brightness can reduce flickering and may even improve color accuracy.
- Check for System Updates: In some cases, screen issues are software-related and can be fixed with an update.
- Warranty Claim: If display issues persist, consider reaching out to Infinix support, as it may be a manufacturing defect covered by warranty.
Camera Problems
The camera is often a point of compromise in budget smartphones, and the Infinix Smart 8 Plus is no exception. Users report various issues with the camera, including poor image quality, slow shutter speed, and problems with focusing.
Blurry or Low-Quality Photos
While the Smart 8 Plus camera works fine in good lighting, it struggles in low-light conditions, often producing blurry or grainy photos. The slow shutter speed can make it challenging to capture moving subjects, resulting in blurry images.
Solutions:
- Use Good Lighting: Try to take photos in well-lit environments to improve clarity.
- Avoid Digital Zoom: Digital zoom reduces image quality significantly, so it’s best to get closer to the subject rather than zooming in.
- Use Third-Party Camera Apps: Some third-party apps offer better control over focus and exposure settings, which may help improve photo quality.
Camera App Crashes
Users also report that the camera app sometimes crashes or freezes, especially when trying to record video or switch to the front camera.
Possible Fixes:
- Clear Cache of Camera App: Go to Settings > Apps > Camera > Clear Cache to free up memory and improve performance.
- Restart the Phone: Restarting the device can often resolve temporary app issues.
Connectivity Issues: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Network Signal Problems
Wi-Fi Connection Drops
Wi-Fi connectivity issues are frequently reported by Infinix Smart 8 Plus users. Some find that the phone loses its Wi-Fi connection intermittently, which can be frustrating when streaming or browsing.
Possible Solutions:
- Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi: Disconnecting from the network and reconnecting can often resolve connection issues.
- Restart the Router: Sometimes, the issue may be with the Wi-Fi network itself rather than the phone.
- Switch to a 2.4GHz Network: The Smart 8 Plus may struggle with 5GHz Wi-Fi signals, so switching to a 2.4GHz network can improve connection stability.
Bluetooth Pairing Issues
Bluetooth pairing can also be a problem with the Infinix Smart 8 Plus, especially when connecting to multiple devices or switching between devices.
Fixes:
- Reset Bluetooth Settings: Go to Bluetooth settings and "Forget" the paired device, then try re-pairing it.
- Clear Bluetooth Cache: In Settings > Apps > Bluetooth, clear the cache to help resolve pairing issues.
Network Signal Drops
Some users experience network signal drops, leading to poor call quality and unreliable data connections. This can be particularly frustrating if you rely on the phone for calls in areas with spotty network coverage.
Suggestions:
- Toggle Airplane Mode: Toggling Airplane mode on and off can refresh the network connection.
- Consider Changing Carrier: If network issues persist, changing to a different carrier may help if your current one has poor coverage in your area.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Infinix Smart 8 Plus?
The Infinix Smart 8 Plus is an entry-level device with solid features, but it does come with a number of limitations that prospective buyers should consider.
Pros:
- Affordable Price: For those on a budget, it’s a cost-effective option.
- Basic Features: For light usage, such as calling, texting, and social media browsing, the device can meet basic needs.
Cons:
- Performance Issues: Lag, app crashes, and slowdowns can be frustrating, especially for users who rely on their device for multitasking.
- Battery and Charging Problems: Rapid battery drain and slow charging can be a hassle if you need a phone for all-day use.
- Camera Quality: The camera is not suited for those who want high-quality photos, especially in low light.
For users seeking a budget phone for basic tasks, the Infinix Smart 8 Plus may suffice. However, if you require smoother performance, longer battery life, or a more reliable camera, it may be worth considering alternatives like the Xiaomi Redmi A1 or Realme C11, which offer better all-around performance at a similar price point.