Unveiling BLU Life 8 XL Specs Pricing Pros & Cons

Design and Build Quality

The BLU Life 8 XL features a simple yet modern design, highlighting a focus on usability. With dimensions of 155 x 74.8 x 7.7 mm and weighing 149 g, it fits comfortably in the hand, offering a lightweight feel that many users appreciate. The device is available in a variety of colors including Black, Orange, Pink, White, and Yellow, catering to different aesthetic preferences. Despite being discontinued, the materials used in its construction allowed for durability during its active market period.

Display

The smartphone boasts a 5.5-inch IPS LCD display, with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. The screen-to-body ratio is approximately 71.9%, providing a decent viewing experience. The pixel density stands at ~267 ppi, making the display sharp enough for everyday tasks, such as browsing the web, watching videos, or playing games. Though not the most advanced screen of its time, the IPS technology ensures good color reproduction and wide viewing angles.

Performance and Hardware

Powered by the Mediatek MT6592M chipset, the BLU Life 8 XL is equipped with an Octa-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and a Mali-450MP4 GPU. This configuration, coupled with 1GB of RAM, is adequate for basic operations and multitasking, though it may struggle with more demanding applications. The device houses 8GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSDXC card, offering flexibility for users who require more space for apps and media.

Camera Capabilities

The BLU Life 8 XL comes with an 8 MP main camera featuring autofocus and LED flash, with video capabilities of 1080p@30fps. It supports HDR for enhanced photo quality. The 2 MP front camera is straightforward, suited for basic selfies and video calls. While it does not boast high-end camera features, it provides sufficient functionality for everyday use.

Battery Life

This device is equipped with a Li-Ion 2920 mAh removable battery, which was a notable feature when it was released, allowing users to swap out batteries if needed. Under 2G networks, the standby time is up to 900 hours, with a talk time of up to 30 hours. For 3G, the standby time decreases to 750 hours, and the talk time reduces to 18 hours. This makes the phone reliable for extended periods away from the charger, suitable for users who are always on the go.

Software and User Interface

Originally running Android 4.4.2 (KitKat), the smartphone is upgradable to Android 5.0 (Lollipop). Although not the latest software, Android Lollipop offers a user-friendly interface and improved performance over its predecessor, enhancing the overall user experience. The operating system supports a variety of applications from the Google Play Store, although users may face compatibility issues with newer apps due to the outdated OS.

Connectivity and Communication

In terms of network connectivity, the BLU Life 8 XL supports GSM and HSPA technologies, with 2G and 3G band compatibility. The device can achieve speeds of HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, which was standard at the time of its release. Additionally, it offers features like Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, and GPS, though it lacks NFC support. The inclusion of FM radio and a microUSB 2.0 port caters to traditional media consumption and connectivity needs.

Additional Features

The phone includes basic sensors such as an accelerometer and proximity sensor, which enhance user interaction with the device. Despite its simplicity, these features were standard in its class, offering users a more interactive experience without overwhelming complexity.

Market Position and Conclusion

Upon its release in May 2015, the BLU Life 8 XL positioned itself as a mid-range smartphone, offering a balance between performance, design, and affordability. While it may not compete with the high-end models of its time, it successfully meets the essential needs of average users. Its discontinuation signifies the end of its era, yet it remains a testament to BLU’s commitment to producing accessible smartphones.

In conclusion, the BLU Life 8 XL serves as an adequate option for users seeking fundamental functionality without premium cost. Its performance and features, although modest by current standards, provide a reliable companion for basic smartphone tasks. It stands out with a removable battery and expandable storage, offering flexibility that appeals to practical users.