Introduction
Overview of the iPhone 8 Plus
The iPhone 8 Plus, launched by Apple in September 2017, marked a significant evolution in the iPhone lineup. It introduced several advanced features and improvements over its predecessors, making it a desirable choice for consumers looking for a high-performance smartphone with a blend of classic and modern design elements. The device was launched alongside the iPhone 8 Plus Brand New and the revolutionary iPhone X, offering a familiar yet enhanced user experience.
Importance and Impact of the iPhone 8 Plus
The iPhone 8 Plus played a crucial role in Apple’s smartphone strategy, bridging the gap between the traditional home button design and the future of bezel-less, Face ID-equipped devices. It brought powerful new hardware, impressive camera capabilities, and advanced software features to the table, setting a new standard for smartphones in its category. Its impact is still felt today as it continues to be a popular choice for those who prefer the reliability and comfort of the classic iPhone design.
Design and Build
Aesthetics and Materials Used
The iPhone 8 Plus boasts a sleek design that combines a glass front and back with a sturdy aluminum frame. This design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also facilitates wireless charging, a new feature at the time. The device is available in several colors, including Space Gray, Silver, and Gold, each offering a premium look and feel. The glass back is reinforced with an internal laser-welded steel and copper structure for added durability.
Durability and Build Quality
Apple has always prioritized build quality, and the iPhone 8 Plus is no exception. The glass used on the front and back is among the most durable ever used in a smartphone, providing resilience against daily wear and tear. Additionally, the device is water and dust-resistant with an IP67 rating, allowing it to withstand submersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This combination of aesthetics and durability ensures that the iPhone 8 Plus can handle the rigors of everyday use while maintaining its elegant appearance.
Display
Retina HD Display Features
The iPhone 8 Plus features a 5.5-inch Retina HD display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness levels, making it ideal for viewing a variety of content. The high pixel density ensures that images and text appear sharp and clear, providing a superior visual experience.
True Tone Technology
One of the standout features of the iPhone 8 Plus display is True Tone technology. This feature uses advanced sensors to adjust the white balance of the display to match the ambient lighting conditions. This results in a more natural and comfortable viewing experience, reducing eye strain during prolonged use.
Wide Color Gamut
The display also supports a wide color gamut, allowing it to display a broader range of colors compared to previous models. This makes photos and videos look more lifelike and vibrant. The support for P3 wide color ensures that the iPhone 8 Plus can accurately reproduce colors in images and videos, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts and media consumers.
Performance and Hardware
A11 Bionic Chip
At the heart of the iPhone 8 Plus is the A11 Bionic chip, a powerhouse that delivers exceptional performance and efficiency. This six-core processor includes two high-performance cores that are 25% faster than the previous A10 chip and four high-efficiency cores that are up to 70% faster. This combination allows the iPhone 8 Plus to handle demanding tasks with ease while optimizing battery life for everyday use.
Neural Engine
The A11 Bionic chip also includes a neural engine designed specifically for machine learning tasks. This enhances the capabilities of the iPhone 8 Plus in areas such as facial recognition, augmented reality, and other advanced computational tasks. The neural engine can perform up to 600 billion operations per second, making it incredibly powerful for a mobile device.
CPU and GPU Performance
The CPU and GPU performance of the iPhone 8 Plus are among the best in its class. The integrated GPU is designed by Apple and offers a 30% improvement in graphics performance over the previous generation. This ensures smooth and responsive gameplay, faster app launch times, and overall improved performance for graphics-intensive applications.
Camera Capabilities
Dual 12MP Camera System
The iPhone 8 Plus features a dual 12MP camera system, consisting of a wide-angle and a telephoto lens. This setup allows for optical zoom and improved low-light performance. The wide-angle lens has an f/1.8 aperture, while the telephoto lens has an f/2.8 aperture, providing greater flexibility for different shooting scenarios.
Portrait Mode and Lighting
Portrait mode on the iPhone 8 Plus uses the dual-camera system to create a depth-of-field effect, keeping the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background. This feature is further enhanced with Portrait Lighting, which offers various lighting effects to simulate studio-quality lighting conditions. These effects include Natural Light, Studio Light, Contour Light, Stage Light, and Stage Light Mono, providing users with creative control over their photos.
4K Video Recording
The iPhone 8 Plus is capable of recording 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, delivering high-quality video with exceptional detail and smoothness. It also supports slow-motion video recording in 1080p at 240 frames per second, allowing for stunning slow-motion effects. These capabilities make the iPhone 8 Plus a powerful tool for videographers and content creators.
Augmented Reality (AR)
ARKit Support
With the release of iOS 11, the iPhone 8 Plus gained support for ARKit, Apple’s augmented reality platform. ARKit enables developers to create immersive AR experiences that blend digital objects with the real world. The advanced hardware of the iPhone 8 Plus, including its powerful A11 Bionic chip and high-quality cameras, makes it well-suited for AR applications.
Enhanced AR Experiences
The iPhone 8 Plus offers enhanced AR experiences, thanks to its precise motion tracking, advanced cameras, and powerful processing capabilities. Users can enjoy a wide range of AR applications, from gaming and entertainment to educational tools and productivity apps. These experiences are further enhanced by the device’s high-resolution display and accurate color reproduction.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery Performance
The iPhone 8 Plus is equipped with a high-capacity battery that provides all-day battery life under normal usage conditions. The A11 Bionic chip’s efficiency improvements help to optimize power consumption, allowing users to enjoy extended usage without frequent recharging. Whether browsing the web, streaming media, or playing games, the iPhone 8 Plus delivers reliable battery performance.
Wireless Charging Capabilities
One of the notable new features of the iPhone 8 Plus is wireless charging. The glass-back design allows the device to be charged using any Qi-compatible wireless charger. This provides a convenient and cable-free charging solution, making it easier for users to keep their devices powered up throughout the day.
Fast Charging Support
In addition to wireless charging, the iPhone 8 Plus supports fast charging, which can charge the battery up to 50% in just 30 minutes. This is especially useful for users who need a quick power boost during busy days. Fast charging requires an Apple 29W, 61W, or 87W USB-C Power Adapter and USB-C to Lightning cable, which is sold separately.
Software and User Experience
iOS 11 Features
The iPhone 8 Plus comes pre-installed with iOS 11, Apple’s advanced mobile operating system. iOS 11 introduces a range of new features and enhancements, including a redesigned Control Center, improved multitasking capabilities, and a more intuitive Files app for managing documents and files. These features enhance the overall user experience, making the iPhone 8 Plus more powerful and user-friendly.
User Interface Enhancements
iOS 11 also brings a range of user interface enhancements that improve the overall usability and aesthetics of the iPhone 8 Plus. The updated design language includes bolder text, more vibrant colors, and improved animations, creating a more visually appealing and responsive interface. The new Dock, customizable Control Center, and enhanced notifications provide users with greater control and convenience.
Security Features
Touch ID Advancements
The iPhone 8 Plus features an advanced Touch ID fingerprint sensor, integrated into the home button. This sensor uses a capacitive touch to scan and recognize fingerprints quickly and accurately, providing a secure and convenient way to unlock the device and authenticate purchases. The second-generation Touch ID sensor is faster and more reliable than ever, enhancing the overall security of the iPhone 8 Plus.
Secure Enclave
The A11 Bionic chip includes a dedicated Secure Enclave, a hardware-based security component that ensures sensitive information, such as fingerprint data, is stored securely. This enhances the overall security of the iPhone 8 Plus, protecting user data from potential threats and unauthorized access. The Secure Enclave works in tandem with Touch ID to provide a robust and secure authentication system.
Audio and Sound Quality
Stereo Speakers
The iPhone 8 Plus features stereo speakers that deliver rich, immersive sound quality. The speakers are 25% louder than those on the iPhone 7 Plus, providing a more dynamic audio experience. Whether listening to music, watching videos, or playing games, the enhanced stereo speakers offer clear and powerful sound.
Enhanced Audio Playback
In addition to improved speakers, the iPhone 8 Plus supports high-quality audio playback with a wide range of audio formats. The device includes support for Dolby Vision and HDR10, enhancing the audio-visual experience for supported content. These features ensure that users can enjoy a premium audio experience across various media types.
Connectivity
LTE Advanced
The iPhone 8 Plus supports LTE Advanced, providing faster and more reliable cellular connectivity. This ensures that users can enjoy high-speed internet access, seamless streaming, and rapid download speeds, even in areas with poor network coverage. The improved LTE performance makes the iPhone 8 Plus an excellent choice for users who rely on their devices for connectivity on the go.
Bluetooth 5.0
Bluetooth 5.0 is another significant upgrade in the iPhone 8 Plus, offering improved range, speed, and reliability compared to previous versions. This allows for better connectivity with Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as wireless headphones, speakers, and fitness trackers. The enhanced Bluetooth capabilities ensure a more stable and efficient wireless experience.
Wi-Fi Improvements
The iPhone 8 Plus features advanced Wi-Fi capabilities, supporting 802.11ac with MIMO technology. This provides faster Wi-Fi speeds, better range, and improved reliability, making it easier for users to stay connected at home, work, or in public places. The enhanced Wi-Fi performance ensures that users can enjoy seamless internet access and smooth streaming experiences.
Storage Options
Available Storage Capacities
The iPhone 8 Plus is available in multiple storage capacities to suit different user needs. These include 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB options. This range of storage capacities ensures that users can choose the right amount of storage for their apps, photos, videos, and other content, without worrying about running out of space.
Performance Impact
The storage capacity of the iPhone 8 Plus can impact overall performance, particularly in terms of speed and efficiency. Higher storage capacities provide more room for apps and data, which can lead to better performance and reduced lag. Additionally, the use of high-speed NAND flash storage in the iPhone 8 Plus ensures fast data access and smooth operation, regardless of the chosen storage capacity.
Environmental Impact
Eco-Friendly Materials
Apple has made significant efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its products, and the iPhone 8 Plus is no exception. The device is made with eco-friendly materials, including a glass and aluminum body that is highly recyclable. Apple also uses recycled tin for the logic board and other components, further reducing the environmental footprint of the iPhone 8 Plus.
Recycling Program
Apple offers a comprehensive recycling program that encourages users to recycle their old devices responsibly. Through the Apple Trade-In program, users can trade in their old iPhones for credit toward a new device, ensuring that valuable materials are recovered and reused. This program helps to reduce electronic waste and promotes sustainable practices in the technology industry.
Comparative Analysis
iPhone 8 Plus vs. iPhone 7 Plus
When comparing the iPhone 8 Plus to its predecessor, the iPhone 7 Plus, several key improvements stand out. The iPhone 8 Plus features a more powerful A11 Bionic chip, improved camera capabilities with Portrait Lighting, and wireless charging support. The addition of True Tone technology and a glass-back design also set it apart from the iPhone 7 Plus, making it a more advanced and versatile device.
iPhone 8 Plus vs. iPhone X
The iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X represent different approaches to smartphone design and technology. The iPhone X features a bezel-less design with Face ID, while the iPhone 8 Plus retains the classic home button and Touch ID. Both devices offer similar performance with the A11 Bionic chip, but the iPhone X includes an OLED display and more advanced facial recognition technology. The choice between the two depends on user preferences for design and authentication methods.
User Guides and Tips
Getting Started with the iPhone 8 Plus
For new users, getting started with the iPhone 8 Plus is straightforward. Upon powering on the device, users are guided through the setup process, which includes connecting to Wi-Fi, signing in with an Apple ID, and setting up Touch ID. Apple provides a comprehensive user guide that covers all the basics, from making calls and sending messages to customizing settings and using Siri.
Maximizing Battery Life
To maximize battery life on the iPhone 8 Plus, users can follow several tips and best practices. These include reducing screen brightness, enabling Low Power Mode, and managing background app refresh settings. Regularly updating to the latest version of iOS can also help improve battery performance by optimizing system efficiency.
Using the Camera Features
The iPhone 8 Plus offers a range of advanced camera features that users can explore to take stunning photos and videos. Portrait mode and Portrait Lighting provide creative options for portrait photography, while the built-in editing tools allow for quick adjustments and enhancements. Users can also take advantage of the 4K video recording capabilities to capture high-quality videos.
Conclusion
Summary of Key Features
The iPhone 8 Plus stands out as a powerful and versatile smartphone, offering a range of advanced features that cater to a wide variety of user needs from the Wise Market NZ. From its robust A11 Bionic chip and impressive dual-camera system to its sleek design and enhanced AR capabilities, the iPhone 8 Plus delivers a premium user experience. The addition of wireless charging and improved battery life further enhance its appeal, making it a top choice for consumers seeking a reliable and feature-rich device.
Final Thoughts on the iPhone 8 Plus
In conclusion, the iPhone 8 Plus represents a significant step forward in smartphone technology, blending the best of Apple’s innovations with a familiar and user-friendly design. Its combination of powerful hardware, advanced software features, and high-quality build make it a standout device in the smartphone market. Whether for everyday use, photography, or productivity, the iPhone 8 Plus offers a comprehensive package that meets the demands of modern users.