In the highly competitive budget smartphone sector, the Infinix Hot 60i emerges as a cautious, almost timid effort rather than a bold stride forward. Marketed as the first installment in the upcoming Hot 60 series, this device barely manages to distinguish itself from its predecessor, the Hot 50i. While it flaunts a few modest upgrades—such as a 6.78-inch 120Hz display and a slightly beefier battery—the overall package feels uninspired. Considering fast-evolving consumer expectations, this approach seems more reactive than visionary, reflecting an industry trend where incremental updates masquerade as genuine progress.
Hardware That Straddles the Line Between Adequate and Obsolete
The Hot 60i’s reliance on the MediaTek Helio G81 Ultimate chipset is a telling compromise. Although the 12nm octa-core processor is serviceable for everyday tasks, it cannot handle the more demanding applications or multitasking scenarios that users increasingly expect. Pairing this with up to 8GB of RAM and generous storage options seems like an attempt to mask the core’s mediocrity. On paper, the 5,160mAh battery with 45W fast charging promises respectable endurance, but real-world performance often betrays such specs when software optimization is lacking—something that remains unclear with the new XOS 15.1 layered on Android 15.
Design and Display: Solid but Forgettable
The device’s sizable Full-HD+ IPS LCD with a 120Hz refresh rate and 800nits peak brightness provides adequate visual clarity and smoothness, particularly at this price point. Yet, the LCD panel feels like a missed opportunity to push boundaries, as competitors increasingly crown their budget devices with AMOLED screens. The physical dimensions and weight of the phone reflect a standard slim profile, with convenient features like a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and USB Type-C port. However, these are baseline expectations today rather than standout innovations.
Camera System Falls Short of Modern Standards
Camera performance is pivotal for budget buyers who seek compelling content creation on a limited budget. The Infinix Hot 60i’s 50MP primary shooter, though seemingly impressive in numbers, is dragged down by an almost negligible 2MP secondary sensor whose role remains ambiguous. The 8MP front-facing camera also feels underwhelming in the age of selfie culture and video calls. Without advanced imaging software or multiple functional lenses (ultrawide, macro, depth), the phone’s camera setup feels outdated and uninspired for 2024.
Market Availability and Consumer Impact
Launched quietly in Bangladesh, with no clear indication of a broader release, the Hot 60i strikes as a device primarily aimed at cost-conscious segments rather than enthusiasts or tech-savvy users. Pricing at roughly Rs. 9,800 to Rs. 11,500 is competitive, yet it competes in a saturated space filled with better-balanced devices. Infinix’s silence on international launches signals a lack of confidence or strategy in penetrating more demanding markets like India. This hesitation cements the phone’s identity as a cautious step rather than a strategic leap.
Infinix’s latest attempt in the budget category reveals much about how some manufacturers are churning out incremental iterations rather than delivering game-changing innovations. While affordability remains crucial, users deserve devices that genuinely move the needle in performance, design, and utility—not just predictable feature shuffles wrapped in new numbers.