The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) was a part of Samsung’s mid-to-upper mid-range lineup, aiming to offer a blend of design, performance, and camera capabilities at a more affordable price point compared to the flagship Galaxy S series. Launched in early 2018, the Galaxy A8 (2018) was a successor to the Galaxy A series, bringing in features reminiscent of the flagship lineup. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018):
Overview:
The Galaxy A8 (2018) was designed for users who wanted a premium smartphone experience without the flagship price tag. With its Infinity Display, decent specifications, and camera capabilities, it catered to users looking for a reliable daily driver with a focus on design and multimedia.
Features:
- Operating System: Shipped with Android 7.1.1 (Nougat) and later received updates.
- Display: 5.6-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2220 pixels, featuring the Infinity Display design.
- Processor: Exynos 7885 Octa.
- Memory: Options of 4 GB RAM with 32/64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
- Camera: 16 MP primary sensor with an f/1.7 aperture. The front features a dual-camera setup: a 16 MP primary sensor and an 8 MP secondary sensor, both with f/1.9 aperture.
- Battery: A 3000 mAh non-removable battery.
- Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, USB Type-C, NFC, IP68 water and dust resistance.
Pros:
- Display: The Super AMOLED Infinity Display was vibrant, with deep blacks and good sunlight visibility.
- Build and Design: The phone featured a glass back and front with an aluminum frame, giving it a premium feel. The design was sleek and modern.
- Water and Dust Resistance: IP68 certification was a significant feature in its price range.
- Selfie Camera: The dual front-facing cameras provided depth and focus adjustments for selfies.
Cons:
- Battery Life: While decent, the 3000 mAh battery might not be enough for power users.
- Rear Camera Performance in Low Light: The camera, while good in daylight, had some struggles in low-light scenarios.
- Software Updates: Samsung’s mid-range devices typically don’t receive updates as quickly as the flagship ones.
Comparisons to Other Technologies:
In its price bracket, the Galaxy A8 (2018) faced competition from:
- Nokia 7 Plus: Offering a 6.0-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 660, and a solid build with Android One certification.
- Sony Xperia XA2 Ultra: With its 6.0-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 630, and a focus on selfie capabilities.
- Motorola Moto X4: Featuring a 5.2-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 630, and a dual-camera setup.
Launch Date:
The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) was announced in December 2017 and became available in various markets in January 2018.
Common Issues/Problems:
- Bloatware: As with many Samsung devices, the A8 came with a fair amount of pre-installed apps, which not everyone found useful.
- Speaker Placement: The side-mounted speaker was an unusual choice and could be easily covered when holding the phone in landscape mode.
- Price: Some users felt that the device was a bit pricey for the features it offered, especially when compared to competitors.
Conclusion:
The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) was a commendable offering in the mid-to-upper mid-range segment, especially for those who prioritize design and display quality. Its Infinity Display, premium build, and decent camera setup made it stand out in its segment. While it had its limitations, especially in terms of battery life and rear camera performance in low light, its overall package was compelling for its price segment. For users looking for a premium design with a focus on display and selfies, the Galaxy A8 (2018) was a good choice. However, those looking for better value for money or faster software updates might have considered other options available in the market at the time.