The POCO M8 5G is the successor to the Poco M7 5G and is shaping up to be one of the most awaited affordable 5G smartphones in India for early 2026.
This new model focuses on delivering a large bright display, capable cameras, smooth everyday performance, and long battery life at a competitive price. POCO continues its value-focused strategy by targeting students, first-time 5G buyers, and users who want strong features without spending too much.
The POCO M8 5G is expected to launch in India on 8 January 2026 through online and offline channels. Pricing is expected to fall between ₹10,000 and ₹14,000, placing it firmly in the budget 5G category.
This guide explains everything in simple language, including specifications, design, display, performance, cameras, battery, software, pricing, pros and cons, and FAQs.
POCO M8 5G Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.77-inch curved AMOLED, FHD+, 120 Hz, up to 3200 nits |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm) |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Storage | 256 GB, expandable via microSD |
| Rear Camera | 50 MP main + 2 MP depth |
| Front Camera | 8 MP |
| Battery | 5520 mAh |
| Charging | 45 W fast wired charging |
| Operating System | Android 15 with HyperOS |
| Connectivity | Dual SIM 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1 |
| Protection | IP65 dust and water resistance |
| Weight | Around 178 g |
| Expected Price in India | ₹10,000 to ₹14,000 |
Introduction
The POCO M8 5G aims to bring premium-style features into the budget smartphone segment. It combines a curved AMOLED display, high brightness, fast refresh rate, and a modern Snapdragon processor.
The large battery and efficient chipset make it suitable for everyday activities like chatting, video streaming, casual gaming, navigation, and online shopping. POCO phones are known for strong hardware at affordable prices, and the M8 5G continues that approach.
Design and Build Quality
The POCO M8 5G features a slim and modern design. It is about 7.35 mm thick and weighs around 178 grams, making it comfortable for one-handed use.
The rear panel uses a dual-tone finish with a centrally placed camera module. The overall look feels trendy and youthful.
The phone also carries an IP65 dust and water resistance rating. This helps protect it from everyday splashes and dust, which is useful in Indian conditions.
Display and Visual Experience
The POCO M8 5G sports a 6.77-inch curved AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate. This results in sharp visuals, smooth scrolling, and a better gaming experience.
Peak brightness is expected to reach up to 3200 nits, which makes the screen easier to view under bright sunlight. The phone is also expected to support wet touch technology, improving touch response when fingers are slightly wet.
For watching videos, browsing, gaming, and social media use, the display should feel premium compared to standard LCD budget phones.
Performance and Everyday Use
The phone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset built on a 4 nm process. It offers balanced performance for daily tasks.
Users can expect smooth handling of messaging apps, social media, video streaming, browsing, online classes, and light to moderate gaming.
With 8 GB RAM and 256 GB internal storage, multitasking should feel smooth. Storage expansion through a microSD card adds flexibility for photos, videos, and files.
The POCO M8 5G runs Android 15 with HyperOS. The interface is designed to be responsive and clean, with useful customization tools and performance optimisations.
Camera System
The POCO M8 5G comes with a 50 MP primary rear camera. It is designed to capture clear and detailed photos in good lighting. The 2 MP depth sensor helps with portrait effects.
The front camera is 8 MP and is suitable for selfies and video calls.
Both front and rear cameras are expected to support up to 4K video recording at 30 fps, which is impressive in the budget segment.
Camera modes like HDR, portrait, night, and slow motion offer flexibility for different shooting conditions.
Also Read Best Premium Mid-Range Smartphone in India: Realme 16 Pro+ 5G
Battery Life and Charging
The phone packs a large 5520 mAh battery. This capacity easily supports a full day of mixed usage, including streaming, browsing, gaming, navigation, and calls.
It supports 45 W fast wired charging. This helps recharge the battery quickly, which is convenient for busy users.
Overall battery performance should be reliable for daily Indian usage.
Software and Features
The POCO M8 5G runs Android 15 with HyperOS. The software offers gesture navigation, performance modes, privacy controls, and system optimisation tools.
POCO is expected to provide multiple Android updates and long-term security patches, making the phone suitable for long-term use.
Connectivity options include dual 5G support, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and NFC for digital payments. The phone also includes stereo speakers and an in-display fingerprint sensor.
Price and Value in India
The expected price range of ₹10,000 to ₹14,000 places the POCO M8 5G among the strongest budget 5G phones in India.
With launch offers, bank discounts, and exchange deals, the effective price may drop further, making it even more attractive for students and budget buyers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Large curved AMOLED display with 120 Hz refresh rate
• High peak brightness for outdoor use
• Smooth everyday performance
• 50 MP main camera with 4K video support
• Big battery with fast charging
• Expandable storage and dual 5G support
• IP65 dust and water resistance
Cons
• No optical image stabilisation
• Front camera resolution is basic
• Curved AMOLED may consume more power at high brightness
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the POCO M8 5G launch in India?
It is expected to launch on 8 January 2026.
Q: Does the POCO M8 5G support 5G in India?
Yes. It supports multiple 5G bands for Indian networks.
Q: How long does the battery last?
The 5520 mAh battery can easily last a full day with mixed usage.
Q: Is the display good for outdoor use?
Yes. The high brightness AMOLED panel is designed for better outdoor visibility.
Q: Is it a good phone under ₹15,000?
Yes. It offers a strong mix of display quality, performance, battery life, and modern features at a budget price.
Final Verdict
The POCO M8 5G is shaping up to be one of the most impressive budget 5G smartphones in India for early 2026. It offers a big curved AMOLED display, smooth everyday performance, capable cameras, long battery life, and modern software at an affordable expected price.
For first-time 5G buyers or users upgrading from older phones, the POCO M8 5G stands out as a strong value-for-money option in the under ₹15,000 segment.
