Price and specifications of BLU Life 8 advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Introduction to BLU Life 8

The BLU Life 8 is a smartphone that marked its presence in the mobile market with its affordable price and functional features. Released in May 2014, this device targeted users looking for a cost-effective solution without compromising on essential functionalities. Despite being discontinued, the BLU Life 8 packs a punch with its specifications, making it still relevant for users who prioritize basic smartphone needs.

Network and Connectivity

The BLU Life 8 supports GSM and HSPA technology, ensuring modest connectivity suitable for daily communication tasks. It operates on 2G bands, including GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900, and 3G bands such as HSDPA 850 / 1900. The device offers HSPA speeds of up to 21.1 Mbps for downloads and 5.76 Mbps for uploads, making it adequate for browsing and streaming music.

Physical Build

The device boasts dimensions of 145 x 69.8 x 7.5 mm and a weight of 136 grams, providing a comfortable and sleek user experience. It comes with a Dual SIM functionality, making it a versatile choice for users managing multiple numbers or carriers. The manageable size and light weight make it easy to hold and operate with one hand.

Display Characteristics

Featuring a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display, the BLU Life 8 provides a decent viewing experience. Its screen-to-body ratio stands at approximately 68.1%, with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels and a pixel density of 294 ppi. The display delivers clear and vivid visuals, suitable for video playback and casual gaming.

Platform and Performance

Running on Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean) and upgradable to 4.4.2 (KitKat), the BLU Life 8 ensures a user-friendly interface with access to a wide application ecosystem. Powered by a Mediatek MT6592 chipset built on 28 nm technology, the device houses an Octa-core 1.7 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU alongside a Mali-450MP4 GPU, guaranteeing competent multitasking and graphical processing.

Memory and Storage

With 1GB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage, the device handles basic applications and moderate storage needs without significant lag. For users requiring additional storage capacity, the microSDHC card slot provides an option to expand the storage, thus enhancing the device's versatility.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera is an 8 MP shooter equipped with LED flash, HDR, and panorama features, offering an adequate photography experience for everyday use. It supports video recording at 1080p@30fps. On the front, the 2 MP selfie camera is modest, fulfilling the need for video calls and basic self-portraits.

Audio and Sound

The BLU Life 8 includes a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing flexibility in audio output. Users can enjoy music, watch videos, and perform hands-free calls effortlessly, thanks to these features.

Communication Features

The phone supports Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band and hotspot capabilities, and Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP for connecting to a variety of networks and devices. With GPS support for navigation and an FM radio, users can stay connected and informed on the go. Although it lacks NFC, the microUSB 2.0 port offers standard wired connectivity.

Sensor Technologies

The BLU Life 8 is equipped with standard sensors including an accelerometer, gyro, and proximity sensor, which are sufficient for most applications and daily needs such as motion detection, screen orientation, and more.

Battery Performance

It comes with a removable Li-Ion 2000 mAh battery. The battery life provides up to 900 hours of standby on 2G and 750 hours on 3G, while talk time extends up to 24 hours on 2G and 14 hours on 3G, supporting a full day of usage without the need for frequent recharging.

Market Availability and Pricing

Available in bright colors such as White, Yellow, Pink, and Orange, the BLU Life 8 catered to a wide array of aesthetic preferences. It was priced at about 150 EUR, making it an attractive option for budget-focused consumers looking for essential smartphone functionalities.

Conclusion

The BLU Life 8 held its ground as a reliable and budget-friendly option in the competitive smartphone market during its time. Although it has been discontinued, its cost-effective features continue to make it a device worth considering for users who need basic smartphone capabilities without breaking the bank.