Why the “Infinixxx Hot 20” is a Fake Phone Flooding the Kenyan Market
The Kenyan smartphone market is grappling with a significant influx of counterfeit devices, with reports indicating that up to 24.6% of phones in circulation may be substandard or fake. Among these, the “Infinixxx Hot 20” has emerged as a notable example of a counterfeit phone. This article explores why this device is fake, details the original phone it is attempting to emulate, provides strategies for avoiding counterfeit purchases, and lists trusted retailers in Kenya where consumers can buy authentic Infinix devices.
Why the “Infinixxx Hot 20” is Fake
The “Infinixxx Hot 20” is likely a counterfeit phone for several reasons:
- Brand Name Misspelling: The name “Infinixxx” is a deliberate misspelling of “Infinix,” a well-known Hong Kong-based smartphone brand popular in Kenya. The extra “x” letters are a clear attempt to deceive consumers into believing they are purchasing a genuine Infinix product, a common tactic used by counterfeiters.
- Suspicious Model Context: While the Infinix Hot 20 is a legitimate model released in October 2022, the “Infinixxx Hot 20” is likely a knock-off version exploiting the popularity of the Hot series. Infinix has issued warnings about counterfeit phones, such as fake GT 20 Pro units, indicating that counterfeiters frequently target their popular models. The absence of “Infinixxx Hot 20” in official Infinix product listings confirms its inauthenticity.
- Market Context: Kenya’s smartphone market is particularly vulnerable to counterfeit devices, with an estimated 10.5 million fake phones in circulation, according to a 2020 Business Daily report. A 2018 study by Startcounter noted that “unknown” handsets, including fakes bearing names of popular brands like Infinix, account for 24.6% of the market, surpassing major brands like Nokia and Samsung. Reports of fake Infinix phones, such as the Hot 10s and Smart 8, being sold on e-commerce platforms further support the likelihood that the “Infinixxx Hot 20” is part of this trend.
Details of the Original Phone: Infinix Hot 20
The “Infinixxx Hot 20” is attempting to emulate the Infinix Hot 20, a budget-friendly smartphone launched by Infinix in October 2022. Below are the key specifications of the original Infinix Hot 20, based on information from reputable sources:
- Display: 6.82-inch HD+ IPS LCD, 720 x 1640 pixels, 90Hz refresh rate, ~263 ppi density, offering a large screen for media consumption.
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G85 (12nm), Octa-core (2×2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6×1.8 GHz Cortex-A55), Mali-G52 MC2 GPU, suitable for casual gaming and multitasking.
- Memory: 4GB/6GB RAM (up to 7GB extended RAM via software), 128GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 256GB.
- Camera: Dual rear camera (50MP primary with f/1.6 aperture + AI lens), 8MP front camera, capable of 1080p video recording with features like portrait and HDR modes.
- Battery: 5000mAh with 18W fast charging and 5W reverse charging, providing excellent battery life for daily use.
- OS: Android 12 with XOS 10.6, offering a customizable and user-friendly interface.
- Design: Plastic build with a glossy back panel, available in Racing Black, Sonic White, Legend Blue, and Tempo Green, weighing 198g, dimensions 170.7 x 77.4 x 8.3mm.
- Price in Kenya: Approximately KSh 18,000–20,000, depending on the retailer and variant (e.g., Phones Store Kenya, Jumia Kenya).
The Infinix Hot 20 is part of the Hot series, designed for budget-conscious users seeking large displays, long battery life, and decent performance, making it a popular choice in Kenya. Counterfeit versions like the “Infinixxx Hot 20” may mimic its design or specs but typically use inferior components, such as low-quality displays or outdated processors, to cut costs.
How to Avoid Buying Fake Phones
To protect themselves from purchasing counterfeit phones like the “Infinixxx Hot 20,” Kenyan consumers can follow these strategies:
- Purchase from Authorized Retailers: Buy only from reputable stores or authorized Infinix dealers to ensure authenticity. Avoid unofficial vendors, street markets, or unverified online sellers, as these are common sources of counterfeit phones. Authorized retailers source directly from Infinix, providing genuine products with warranties.
- Verify IMEI Number: Dial *#06# to retrieve the phone’s 15-digit IMEI number and verify it on Infinix’s official verification platform (https://www.infinixmobility.com/ng/warranty-check) or by texting it to the Communications Authority of Kenya’s verification service (details at https://www.ca.go.ke). An invalid or mismatched IMEI indicates a fake phone.
- Check Pricing: Be cautious of prices significantly below market rates. The Infinix Hot 20 retails for around KSh 18,000–20,000. Deals far below this range (e.g., KSh 10,000) are likely fake, as counterfeiters use low prices to attract buyers.
- Inspect Packaging and Build Quality: Counterfeit phones often have flimsy packaging with low-resolution printing, misspellings (e.g., “Infinixxx” instead of “Infinix”), or inconsistent fonts. Check the phone’s build for cheap plastic, pixelated screens, or loose buttons. Genuine Infinix phones have a glossy, high-quality finish and clear branding on accessories like chargers.
- Verify Software and Performance: Genuine Infinix phones run XOS on Android (e.g., XOS 10.6 on Android 12 for Hot 20). Check for a smooth user interface, official apps like Google Play Store (or Infinix’s app store), and proper functionality. Counterfeit phones may have outdated or modified software, suspicious bloatware, or performance issues like lagging or app crashes. Test the camera to ensure it matches the 50MP specification.
- Look for Warranty and Accessories: Authentic Infinix phones come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty and high-quality accessories with clear branding. Counterfeit phones may lack warranties or include poorly made accessories with misspellings or low-quality printing.
- Trust Reputable Sources: If the seller’s reputation is questionable or the deal seems too good to be true, avoid the purchase. Research the retailer’s reviews and ensure they are authorized Infinix partners, such as those with a “Jumia Official Store” or “Shopee Mall” label.
Where to Buy Original Infinix Phones in Kenya
To ensure you purchase an authentic Infinix Hot 20 or other genuine Infinix models, consider these reputable Kenyan retailers, known for sourcing directly from manufacturers and offering warranties:
- Phone Place Kenya: Offers the Infinix Hot 20 (KSh 18,000–20,000) and other Infinix models with fast delivery and a one-year warranty.
https://www.phoneplacekenya.com/product-category/smartphones/infinix/ - Jumia Kenya: Stocks a wide range of Infinix smartphones, including the Hot 20, with secure payment options and nationwide delivery.
https://www.jumia.co.ke/infinix/ - Gadgets Leo: Provides original Infinix devices with payment-on-delivery options in Nairobi and a focus on customer satisfaction.
https://gadgetsleo.com/product-category/phones/infinix/ - Avechi Kenya: Sells the Infinix Hot 20 and other models at competitive prices, with reliable online shopping and delivery.
https://avechi.co.ke/product-category/infinix/ - Phones Store Kenya: Offers the Infinix Hot 20 (KSh 18,000) with same-day delivery in Nairobi and a one-year warranty.
https://phonesstorekenya.com/product-category/infinix/ - Phones & Tablets Kenya: Stocks Infinix smartphones with fast shipping and responsive customer support.
https://www.phonestablets.co.ke/product-category/infinix/
Conclusion
The “Infinixxx Hot 20” is a counterfeit phone exploiting Infinix’s brand reputation, identifiable by its misspelled name and the absence of official documentation, set against the backdrop of Kenya’s rampant counterfeit phone market. The original Infinix Hot 20, with its 6.82-inch display, Helio G85 processor, 50MP camera, and 5000mAh battery, is a budget-friendly device popular in Kenya, making it a target for counterfeiters. Consumers can protect themselves by purchasing from authorized retailers, verifying IMEI numbers, checking pricing and build quality, and ensuring software authenticity. Trusted stores like Phone Place Kenya, Jumia Kenya, Gadgets Leo, Avechi, Phones Store Kenya, and Phones & Tablets Kenya offer genuine Infinix devices, ensuring a reliable purchase. By staying vigilant and prioritizing authenticity, Kenyan consumers can avoid scams and enjoy the quality of legitimate Infinix smartphones.
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