Fire HD 8 12th Gen

Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen (2023) in Kenya

The Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen, released in 2022, continues to be a popular choice among tablet users in Kenya, thanks to its portability, versatility, and multipurpose functionality, making it ideal for a variety of media consumption needs. With an 8” high-definition (HD) touchscreen boasting a resolution of 1280 x 800 pixels (189 ppi), this tablet provides a large and sufficiently bright display for gaming, reading, watching educational videos, and enjoying eBooks. Powered by a Hexa-core 2.0 GHz processor and supported by 2GB of RAM, the Fire HD 8 ensures fast processing and robust performance. Users can choose between 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, which is expandable by up to 1TB using a microSD card. The tablet features basic 2MP front and rear cameras, suitable for video calls and casual photography. The non-removable Lithium battery offers an impressive 13 hours of usage on a full charge and can be fully recharged in just 3 hours via USB Type-C. The Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen is now available at Cytech Digitals in a variety of colors including Black, Denim, and Rose.

Unique Selling Points

• Enhanced Performance: The upgraded Hexa-core processor delivers a performance boost of up to 30% compared to the previous generation, making it more responsive for multitasking and gaming.
• All-Day Battery Life: Enjoy up to 13 hours of continuous use for reading, browsing, watching videos, and listening to music, whether at home or on the go.
• Access to Amazon’s Content Ecosystem: With the Amazon App Store, users can easily stream or download their favorite shows and movies from popular platforms like Prime Video, Netflix, Disney+, and HBO.
• Video Calling and Smart Home Integration: Use Alexa to make video calls to friends and family or control compatible smart home devices with ease.
• Parental Controls: Amazon Kids offers user-friendly parental controls, and subscribing to Amazon Kids+ unlocks thousands of books, popular apps, games, and videos for children.

Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen 2023 Specifications and Features in Kenya

Product Description

Built and Display

The Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet is designed with portability in mind, measuring 201.9 x 137.34 x 9.60 mm and weighing only 337g. This makes it a lightweight option for users who are always on the go. The tablet’s build quality is impressive, as it is constructed with strengthened aluminosilicate glass, making it twice as durable as the Apple iPad mini (2021) as demonstrated through rigorous tumble tests. The 8-inch HD display is complemented by an anti-glare screen protector, ensuring that users can enjoy their content without distractions. Additionally, the Amazon-designed case, which includes a built-in stand, allows for hands-free viewing in both landscape and portrait orientations, making it ideal for watching movies or following recipes while cooking.

Performance

Processor

The Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen is equipped with an enhanced Hexa-core processor that provides a significant performance boost, making it up to 30% faster than its predecessor. This improvement translates to a more responsive user experience, whether you are multitasking across various applications or enjoying graphics-intensive games. The processor is capable of handling everyday tasks with ease, giving users a smooth and efficient experience.

Storage

With options for 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, the Fire HD 8 also offers the flexibility of expandable storage via a dedicated microSD slot, allowing users to add up to 1TB of additional memory. This feature is particularly beneficial for users in Kenya who may want to download a variety of content such as movies, music, and eBooks for offline access, especially in areas with limited internet connectivity.

Perfect for Learning and Entertainment

Made for Entertainment

The Fire HD 8 is a fantastic device for entertainment, allowing users to stream or download their favorite shows and movies from platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and others (subscription fees may apply). Its built-in speakers deliver decent audio quality, or users can connect their favorite headphones via Bluetooth or the 3.5mm headphone jack for a more personal listening experience. Furthermore, the Luna App allows Fire tablet users to stream games directly from the cloud, and Prime members can enjoy a rotating selection of free games on the Prime Gaming Channel.

More Ways to Enjoy Your Fire HD 8 Tablet

The split-screen functionality enhances productivity, allowing users to send emails while attending a Zoom call or look up recipes while watching their favorite cooking shows on Prime Video. Additionally, the screen mirroring feature enables users to project content such as movies, shows, web browsers, apps, and photos onto Miracast-compatible devices, providing a larger viewing experience for family and friends.

Explore Your Favorites

The Fire HD 8 tablet is perfect for curling up with an eBook, staying connected on social media apps like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, or discovering new movies and shows on streaming services like Netflix and Hulu. The Amazon Appstore offers a wide selection of apps, although it is important to note that Google Play is not supported on this device.

Alexa

Hands-Free Functionality

With Alexa built into the Fire HD 8, users can enjoy hands-free access to a variety of functionalities. Ask Alexa to play videos and music, open apps, shop online, check the weather, or even call or message friends and family. The integration of Alexa also allows users to control compatible smart home devices, providing a seamless experience for those who have already invested in smart technology.

Your Privacy Matters

Amazon takes user privacy seriously, and the Fire HD 8 is designed with features that protect your personal information. Users can view and delete their voice recordings and have the option to toggle the Alexa Hands-Free Mode on or off at any time.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi

The Fire HD 8 is a Wi-Fi-only tablet that supports dual-band Wi-Fi, making it compatible with both public and private networks or hotspots. It adheres to the dual-band 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards and supports various security protocols, including WEP, WPA3 OWE, WPA/WPA2/WPA3 Personal, and WPA/WPA2/WPA3 Enterprise. However, it is important to note that Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 ax) is not supported on this device.

Bluetooth

The tablet features built-in Bluetooth 5.2, allowing users to connect to A2DP compatible stereo headphones, speakers, microphones, and LE accessories. This enhances the overall user experience, especially for those who prefer wireless audio options.

Ports

The Fire HD 8 includes a USB-C (2.0) connector for charging and a microSD slot for external storage. Additionally, the tablet is equipped with a 3.5mm stereo jack and integrated speakers, along with external volume controls, ensuring that users can enjoy high-quality audio whether they are watching videos, listening to music, or making calls.

Battery and Power Management

The device boasts an impressive battery life of up to 13 hours, allowing users to stream content, download videos, and read eBooks throughout the day without worrying about running out of power. The Fire HD 8 is designed for convenience, featuring USB-C for easy and fast charging. Its lightweight and slim design make it a comfortable device to carry around, and its durability is noteworthy, as it has been tested to be twice as durable as the Apple iPad mini (2021).

Pros and Cons of Amazon Fire HD 8 12 Gen

Pros

• Expandable memory of up to 1TB with a dedicated MicroSD slot, allowing for extensive storage options.
• Decent battery life, providing up to 13 hours of continuous use.
• Supports Alexa, Amazon’s Smart Voice Assistant, enhancing user experience with voice commands.
• Durable build quality, making it suitable for everyday use.
• Affordable pricing compared to other tablets in its category, making it accessible for many users in Kenya.
• Access to Amazon’s vast content library, including books, apps, and streaming services.

Cons

• No GSM support; limited to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which may not be ideal for users needing cellular data.
• Basic camera setup; not suitable for high-quality photography or videography.
• Limited compatibility with Android and iOS apps; access to Google services is not available.
• Bulky design compared to some slimmer tablets, which may affect portability for some users.
• Resolution may not be the best for an immersive gaming or movie-watching experience.
• No fast charging support, which may be a drawback for users needing quick power-ups.
• The tablet is not waterproof, requiring careful handling around water.

Buying Guide for the Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen in Kenya

When considering the purchase of the Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen, it’s essential to evaluate various factors to ensure it meets your needs. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Determine Your Primary Use Case

Understanding how you plan to use the Fire HD 8 will guide your purchase. Are you looking for a device primarily for media consumption, educational purposes, or light productivity? The Fire HD 8 is excellent for streaming videos, reading eBooks, and casual browsing. However, if you require a more powerful tablet for intensive tasks like gaming or professional work, you may want to consider alternatives.

2. Storage Needs

With options for 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, consider how much media and apps you plan to download. If you anticipate needing more space, opt for the 64GB model or plan to invest in a microSD card for expandable storage up to 1TB. This is particularly useful in Kenya, where internet connectivity can be inconsistent, making offline access to content important.

3. Battery Life

The Fire HD 8 offers up to 13 hours of battery life, which is impressive for a tablet in its price range. Consider your daily usage habits and whether you need a device that can last through long trips or extended periods away from a power source.

4. Connectivity Options

As a Wi-Fi-only tablet, the Fire HD 8 may not suit everyone, especially those who require cellular connectivity. Ensure that your usage scenario aligns with the connectivity options available on the device. If you often find yourself in areas with limited Wi-Fi access, you may want to explore tablets with cellular capabilities.

5. Compatibility with Apps

The Amazon Appstore offers a wide range of apps, but it is essential to note that Google Play is not supported on this device. Make sure that the apps you rely on are available in the Amazon Appstore before making your purchase.

6. Budget Considerations

With a current price of approximately KSh 18,000, the Fire HD 8 is competitively priced, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers in Kenya. Compare its features and performance with other tablets in the same price range to ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment.

7. User Reviews and Feedback

Before purchasing, take the time to read user reviews and feedback. This can provide insights into the device’s performance, durability, and any common issues that users have encountered. Look for reviews from Kenyan users to see how the tablet performs in local conditions.

Comparison with Competitors

When evaluating the Amazon Fire HD 8 12th Gen, it’s beneficial to compare it with similar tablets in the market. Here are a few notable competitors:

1. Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite is a strong competitor, offering an 8.7-inch display with a similar resolution. It comes with 3GB of RAM and options for 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD. The Galaxy Tab A7 Lite runs on Android, providing access to Google Play services, which may be a significant advantage for users who rely on specific apps. However, it may come at a higher price point compared to the Fire HD 8.

2. Lenovo Tab M8 (2nd Gen)

Another alternative is the Lenovo Tab M8, which features an 8-inch HD display and runs on Android. It offers a similar performance with options for 2GB or 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage, expandable via microSD. The Tab M8 is also competitively priced and provides access to Google services, making it a worthy contender against the Fire HD 8.

3. Huawei MatePad T8

The Huawei MatePad T8 is another option, featuring an 8-inch display and running on Huawei’s EMUI, which is based on Android. The MatePad T8 provides access to various apps and services, although it may lack Google Play support. It offers decent performance and battery life but may not be as readily available in some Kenyan markets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is the Amazon Fire HD 8 suitable for gaming?

While the Fire HD 8 can handle casual gaming quite well, it may not perform optimally with more graphics-intensive games. Its Hexa-core processor is suitable for light gaming, but for heavy-duty gaming, consider more powerful tablets.

2. Can I use the Fire HD 8 for video calls?

Yes, the Fire HD 8 features a front-facing 2MP camera, allowing you to make video calls using apps like Zoom and Skype. The integration with Alexa also enhances the calling experience.

3. Does the Fire HD 8 support Google Play?

No, the Fire HD 8 runs on a customized version of Android and does not support Google Play services. Users must rely on the Amazon Appstore for app downloads.

4. How can I expand the storage on my Fire HD 8?

The Fire HD 8 allows for expandable storage via