Samsung Galaxy A8+ (2018) Review: The Mid-range Version of S8 Plus
Just recently, Samsung unveiled the latest addition to their Galaxy lineup in India, the Samsung Galaxy A8+. South Korean tech giant Samsung is no doubt always on the roll when it comes to releasing new smartphones.
According to reports, the Samsung Galaxy A8+ is the follow-up to the Galaxy A7 (2017). But the company has decided to change its name this year for the purpose of making things simpler. Priced at Rs 32,990 (around $520), the new device will be exclusively available on Amazon in beginning January 20.
Samsung fans are wondering though if the Galaxy A8+ (2018) will be worth the purchase. At first look, the device is noted to be a reminiscent of the flagship Galaxy S8 and Galaxy Note 8. This makes the newly launched smartphone a perfect choice for those who have been wanting to grab a cheaper version of the high-end units.
However, it is noted that the design of the Samsung Galaxy A8+ is more of a combination of the Galaxy S8 and Plus and the Galaxy A7 (2017). With a metal back panel, the Galaxy A8+ (2018) is equipped with a six-inch Super AMOLED Infinity display (18.5:9 aspect ratio) with 1080 x 2220 pixel resolution. It’s noted that the device is not designed with curved edges. Nonetheless, its display makes up for it as it gives off decent viewing angles and precise color reproduction.
Moreover, because of its immersive screen, the unit has no room for a physical home button. The fingerprint sensor can be accessed at the back, below the camera. Unlike in the Galaxy S8 Plus, the position of the fingerprint sensor in the Samsung Galaxy A8+ (2018) is easier to reach. The device is IP68-certified, making it dust- and water-resistant.
As for its camera specs, the Galaxy A8+ (2018) is the first Samsung model to come with a dual-camera setup on the front. The first one is 16 megapixels with f/1.9 aperture, while the second one is 8 megapixels with the same aperture. The highlight feature of the front camera is the Live Focus, which allows users to modify the blur effect before and after taking the photo. At the rear is a 16-megapixel snapper with f/1.7 aperture. It features a Hyperlapse mode and video image stabilization.
Under the hood of Galaxy A8+ (2018) is an octa-core Exynos 7885 chipset with 6 GB RAM and 64 GB of inbuilt storage. The device’s memory can be expanded up to 256 GB through a micro SD card. For the software, it’s noted that the new device will only be running with Android 7.1.1 Nougat. This particular detail has been questioned considering the Android 8.0 Oreo has already been released several months ago. There is also no word regarding an update.
The device is expected to last a day with its 3,500 mAh battery. It also features support for fast charging. Other details to expect from the A8+ (2018) include a 3.5 mm headphone jack, USB type C port, and microphone.
Galaxy A8+ (2018) is a mid-range version of the flagship devices so it’s a perfect alternative especially for those who cannot afford the S8 and S8 Plus. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy A8+ comes with a solid features and premium vibe that may just be enough to say it’s worth the try.
