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The Infinixx Smart 8: A Counterfeit Threat Flooding Kenya’s Smartphone Market

Kenya’s smartphone market is a thriving hub for affordable, feature-rich devices, but it is also a prime target for counterfeit products like the “Infinixx Smart 8.” This fake phone, with its deliberately misspelled brand name, mimics the genuine Infinix Smart 8, a budget-friendly smartphone from the reputable Hong Kong-based manufacturer Infinix Mobile, part of Transsion Holdings. By exploiting the popularity of Infinix’s Smart series, the Infinixx Smart 8 deceives budget-conscious consumers with its low price and superficial resemblance to the real device. This article examines why the Infinixx Smart 8 is a counterfeit flooding the Kenyan market, what makes it fake, how it compares to the authentic Infinix Smart 8, their respective prices and purchase locations, and why consumers should avoid fake phones.

Why the Infinixx Smart 8 Is a Fake Phone

The Infinixx Smart 8 is not an official product from Infinix Mobile, a brand recognized for its budget-friendly smartphones like the Smart, Hot, Note, and Zero series. The extra “x” in “Infinixx” is a deliberate tactic by counterfeiters to mimic the brand while evading legal scrutiny, similar to other fakes like “Tecnoo” or “Sammsong.” Kenya’s smartphone market is particularly vulnerable to counterfeits, with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) estimating that up to 40% of phones in circulation may be fake, contributing to an estimated KSh 30 billion in annual tax evasion. The Infinixx Smart 8 targets price-sensitive consumers, flooding online marketplaces and informal retail channels with cheap knockoffs that promise budget-friendly features at a fraction of the cost. The genuine Infinix Smart 8, launched in November 2023, is a well-documented device, while the “Infinixx Smart 8” is a fraudulent imitation with no official backing.

What Makes the Infinixx Smart 8 Fake?

Several characteristics expose the Infinixx Smart 8 as a counterfeit:

1. Misleading Branding: The name “Infinixx” closely resembles Infinix’s logo and font, but the extra “x” is a clear indicator of fraud. Packaging often features low-quality printing, misspellings, or incorrect fonts, unlike Infinix’s professional packaging seen on platforms like Jumia Kenya.
2. Suspicious Model Replication: While the Infinix Smart 8 is a legitimate model, the “Infinixx Smart 8” is a fake version with no official backing. Counterfeiters capitalize on the Smart 8’s name to create confusion, as seen with similar fakes targeting budget devices in Kenya.
3. Inferior Build Quality: The fake phone mimics the Smart 8’s 6.6-inch display and sleek design but uses cheap plastic instead of the genuine model’s glass front, plastic frame, and textured back. It lacks the Smart 8’s slim 8.5mm profile and durable build, often feeling flimsy or lightweight.
4. Substandard Hardware: The Infinixx Smart 8 typically uses low-end processors (e.g., outdated MediaTek MT6580), low-resolution LCD displays, and poor-quality cameras, unlike the Smart 8’s Unisoc T606 chipset, 13MP + 0.08MP dual-camera system, and 6.6-inch IPS LCD with a 90Hz refresh rate.
5. Software Issues: The counterfeit runs a modified Android version, often Android 10 or 11, disguised to resemble Infinix’s XOS 13, and may include bloatware or malware, posing security risks. The genuine Smart 8 runs Android 13 (Go edition) with XOS 13, featuring a Dynamic Island-like overlay and Smart Panel.
6. Invalid IMEI: Counterfeit phones often have invalid or mismatched IMEI numbers. In Kenya, consumers can verify authenticity by texting the IMEI (obtained by dialing *#06#) to 1555, a free CA service. An invalid IMEI confirms the device is fake.
7. Poor Accessories: The fake phone comes with low-quality, unbranded chargers and cables, unlike Infinix’s reliable accessories supporting 10W charging, as noted in reviews from Phone Place Kenya.

Comparison with the Infinix Smart 8

The Infinixx Smart 8 attempts to emulate the Infinix Smart 8, a budget smartphone launched in November 2023. Below is a comparison based on available specifications:

The Infinix Smart 8 is a value-driven device with a 90Hz display, a reliable Unisoc T606 processor, and a 5,000mAh battery that lasts up to 24 hours of talk time or 36 hours of video calls, ideal for budget-conscious users. Its 13MP camera and 8MP selfie shooter with LED flash perform well for its class, and XOS 13 adds features like Social Turbo and Game Mode. Available in colors like Timber Black and Crystal Green, it’s a dependable choice for Kenya’s youth. The Infinixx Smart 8, in contrast, offers sluggish performance, poor camera quality, and no long-term reliability, failing to deliver the Smart 8’s functionality or value.

Prices and Purchase Locations

• Infinixx Smart 8: Priced between KSh 4,000–8,000, this counterfeit is sold at a lower cost than the genuine phone, appealing to budget buyers. It is commonly found on online marketplaces like Jiji.co.ke, Kilimall, and unverified sellers on Jumia Kenya, as well as in informal markets like Luthuli Avenue and Gikomba in Nairobi, notorious for counterfeit goods.
  • Purchase Link: Jiji – Mobile Phones (Note: Specific listings for the Infinixx Smart 8 may not be explicitly labeled but appear under suspiciously cheap smartphone categories.)
  • Purchase Link: Kilimall – Smartphones (Buyers should verify seller credibility due to the prevalence of fakes.)
• Infinix Smart 8: Priced at approximately KSh 11,200–13,500 (3GB/64GB or 4GB/128GB) in Kenya, it is available from authorized retailers like Phone Place Kenya, Phones Store Kenya, and Jumia Kenya, ensuring genuine products with warranties.
  • Purchase Link: Phone Place Kenya – Infinix Smart 8
  • Purchase Link: Phones Store Kenya – Infinix Smart 8
  • Purchase Link: Jumia Kenya – Infinix Smart 8

Why People Should Avoid Fake Phones Like the Infinixx Smart 8

Purchasing counterfeit phones like the Infinixx Smart 8 carries significant risks:

1. Poor Performance and Durability: Fake phones often lag, freeze, or fail during basic tasks. Their low-quality components, such as batteries, may overheat or degrade quickly, posing safety hazards like fires or explosions. The genuine Smart 8’s Unisoc T606 and 5,000mAh battery ensure reliable performance, unlike the counterfeit’s subpar hardware.
2. Security Risks: Counterfeit devices frequently come with pre-installed malware or lack proper security protocols, risking personal data like bank details, critical in Kenya where mobile banking is prevalent. Over 150 million counterfeit smartphones are sold annually with the intent to compromise user information.
3. No Warranty or Support: Unlike the Infinix Smart 8, which includes a warranty and software updates from authorized retailers like Phones Store Kenya, fakes offer no support, leaving users stranded if issues arise.
4. Economic Impact: Counterfeit phones contribute to an estimated KSh 30 billion in annual tax evasion in Kenya and undermine legitimate manufacturers, stifling innovation and economic growth.
5. Environmental Harm: Fake phones use substandard components, such as low-quality batteries, which are disposed of at higher rates, contributing to environmental pollution.
6. No Long-Term Value: While cheaper upfront, counterfeit phones fail quickly, requiring replacements that negate initial savings. Genuine Infinix phones, like the Smart 8, retain value and functionality over time, with durable builds and long-lasting batteries.

Conclusion

The Infinixx Smart 8 is a counterfeit device exploiting Infinix’s reputation in Kenya’s price-sensitive market. By mimicking the Infinix Smart 8 with inferior materials, outdated software, and fake branding, it deceives buyers seeking affordable, reliable tech. Consumers can protect themselves by verifying IMEI numbers through the CA’s service (text to 1555) and purchasing from reputable retailers like Phone Place Kenya, Phones Store Kenya, or Jumia Kenya. Investing in a genuine Infinix Smart 8 ensures reliable performance, security, and long-term value, making it a smarter choice for Kenya’s tech-savvy consumers.

SANURA MAISHA MAGIC EAST SEASON 1 EPISODE 274