The Huawei Nova 8, upon its launch, garnered attention for its design and camera capabilities, typical of the Nova series. It positioned itself as a stylish mid-range offering.
Design and Display
Design: The Nova 8 generally received positive remarks for its aesthetics, often featuring a slim profile and an eye-catching rear camera module, dubbed the "Nebula Camera System" in some descriptions. Build quality was considered good for its price point, with a focus on a premium feel.
Display: It typically came equipped with an OLED display, praised for vibrant colors and deep blacks. A high refresh rate (commonly 90Hz) was a key feature, offering smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the user experience.
Performance and Software
Performance: Powered by Huawei's Kirin 820E or Kirin 985 5G chipset (depending on the specific model/region), performance was generally deemed adequate for everyday tasks, social media, and moderate gaming. It was not positioned as a top-tier gaming device but handled most applications smoothly.
Software: The Nova 8 launched with EMUI, based on Android. A significant point of discussion in reviews for international versions was the absence of Google Mobile Services (GMS). This meant users had to rely on Huawei's AppGallery and Petal Search for apps, which could be a limitation for those heavily invested in Google's ecosystem.
Camera
Rear Camera: The device usually featured a multi-lens rear camera setup, headlined by a high-resolution main sensor (often 64MP). This was complemented by ultrawide, macro, and depth sensors. Image quality in good lighting was frequently praised, with good detail and color reproduction. Low-light performance was decent for its class.
Front Camera: Selfie capabilities were often highlighted, with high-resolution front-facing cameras delivering sharp and detailed self-portraits, a traditional strength of the Nova line.
Battery
Battery Life & Charging: Battery capacity was generally standard for its size, providing a full day's use for most users. A standout feature was its fast-charging capability, often 66W Huawei SuperCharge, allowing the phone to be powered up very quickly.
Overall Sentiments
- Pros: Attractive design, vibrant high-refresh-rate OLED display, capable camera system (especially the main and selfie cameras), and very fast charging speeds.
- Cons: The primary concern for international markets was the lack of Google Mobile Services, impacting app availability and user experience for some. Processor performance, while good, might not have matched some competitors in raw power for intensive tasks.
In summary, reviews positioned the Nova 8 as a compelling mid-range phone for users prioritizing aesthetics, camera quality, and charging speed, provided they were comfortable with Huawei's software ecosystem and potential app limitations.
