XOLO Play 8X1200 Comprehensive Review Specs Price & ProsCons

Overview

The XOLO Play 8X-1200 was launched in July 2014 as part of XOLO's Play series, designed to deliver a premium gaming experience in an affordable package. This device was aimed at users seeking high performance combined with a robust multimedia experience, reflective of its specifications which include a powerful Mediatek MT6592T chipset and a capable 13 MP rear camera.

Build and Design

The device features dimensions of 143 x 68.5 x 9.7 mm, which creates a compact and comfortable hold. The moderately thick profile allowed for a non-removable Li-Ion 2300 mAh battery to be housed efficiently, contributing to its sturdy feel. Its dual SIM capabilities set it apart from many contemporaries, catering to users requiring multiple network access. Available in black and red colors, the device offered a touch of personality that appealed to style-conscious consumers.

Display

The XOLO Play 8X-1200 sports a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This results in a sharp image quality at approximately 441 ppi pixel density, which was impressive for its time, providing vibrant visuals and deep contrasts suitable for gaming and media consumption.

Performance

Equipped with an octa-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU and a Mali-450MP4 GPU, the Play 8X-1200 was well-suited for handling intensive gaming and multitasking. Coupled with 2GB RAM, the device was capable of managing various applications simultaneously without significant lag. The Mediatek MT6592T chipset delivered efficient processing power, making the device competitive in its category during its release.

Camera

Main Camera

The primary camera on the XOLO Play 8X-1200 is a 13 MP shooter with autofocus, supported by dual-LED flash. It features panorama and HDR modes, allowing users to capture high-quality pictures in various lighting conditions. Video recording at 1080p@30fps provided acceptable video quality for casual recordings.

Selfie Camera

The front-facing 5 MP camera, accompanied by an LED flash, offered adequate performance for selfie enthusiasts. Although lacking high-end image stabilization or advanced autofocus, it still managed to deliver clear and decent photo quality in well-lit environments.

Storage and Memory

The Play 8X-1200 comes with 32GB of internal storage. However, the absence of an expandable card slot could be limiting for users with extensive data storage needs. Nevertheless, the internal memory was substantial enough for managing a fair amount of applications, media files, and documents.

Operating System and Software

Out of the box, the XOLO Play 8X-1200 ran on Android 4.4.2 KitKat. At the time of its launch, Android KitKat was popular for its optimization and performance boost features. The user interface was smooth and responsive, offering a satisfactory user experience with standard Android functionalities.

Connectivity

In terms of network capabilities, the device supported GSM and HSPA technologies, ensuring reliable connectivity for voice calls and data usage. Connectivity options included Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n and hotspot capabilities, Bluetooth 4.0 with A2DP, GPS for navigation, and a microUSB 2.0 port with OTG support. The lack of NFC might have been a downside for users looking for seamless pairing and data transfer features.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a 2300 mAh Li-Ion battery, claimed to offer up to 24 hours of talk time on a 2G network and up to 11 hours and 45 minutes on 3G. Although it might fall short by today's standards, at release, it was considered adequate for a full day's use under moderate usage conditions.

Audio and Media

The XOLO Play 8X-1200 comes with a 3.5mm audio jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of headphones and external audio devices. Its loudspeaker, though standard, provided a reasonable audio output suitable for calls and notifications.

Sensors and Features

The device is equipped with a range of sensors including an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass, broadening its usability in various applications, especially for navigation and augmented reality experiences.

Market Positioning and Legacy

Upon its release, priced at approximately 270 EUR, the XOLO Play 8X-1200 was positioned as an affordable yet powerful smartphone option for users seeking strong multimedia and gaming capabilities. While it was eventually discontinued, the Play 8X-1200 contributed to the perception of XOLO as a brand capable of delivering performance-oriented devices at a competitive price point.