In the modern era of smartphones, we’re accustomed to features like wireless charging, facial recognition, and high-quality cameras. However, there’s one feature that’s been largely forgotten: the infrared (IR) blaster. This small, yet mighty, component allowed users to control devices like TVs, air conditioners, and other appliances using their phone. But, what phone has an IR blaster, and why did this feature disappear from the smartphone landscape?
The Rise And Fall Of IR Blasters
IR blasters were once a staple in high-end smartphones, particularly in the early 2010s. Manufacturers like Samsung, LG, and HTC incorporated IR blasters into their flagship devices, touting them as a convenient way to control devices without the need for separate remotes. For example, Samsung’s Galaxy S4, released in 2013, came with a built-in IR blaster, which allowed users to control their TV, DVD player, and even air conditioner.
However, as the years went by, IR blasters began to disappear from smartphones. Several factors contributed to their decline:
- The rise of alternative control methods: With the proliferation of smart home devices and streaming services, alternative control methods like voice assistants (e.g., Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant) and mobile apps became more prevalent.
- Limited compatibility: IR blasters were often limited to specific device brands or models, making them less useful for users with diverse device ecosystems.
- Space and cost constraints: As smartphones evolved to prioritize thinner designs and improved performance, manufacturers had to make sacrifices. IR blasters, deemed a niche feature, were often the first to go.
Current Phones With IR Blasters
While IR blasters are no longer a standard feature in modern smartphones, some devices still carry this capability. Here are a few examples:
Budget-friendly options
- Xiaomi Redmi series: Select models in Xiaomi’s budget-friendly Redmi series, such as the Redmi 9 and Redmi 9A, come equipped with IR blasters. These phones are primarily available in Asia, but can be imported or purchased through online retailers.
- Huawei Honor series: Certain models in Huawei’s Honor series, like the Honor 9X and Honor 30, feature IR blasters. These phones are popular in Asia and Europe, but availability may vary depending on your region.
Higher-end options
- Samsung Galaxy S6 Active: This ruggedized variant of the Galaxy S6, released in 2015, still packs an IR blaster. Although an older model, the Galaxy S6 Active can be found refurbished or used through online marketplaces.
- LG G5: LG’s 2016 flagship, the G5, features an IR blaster, allowing users to control devices like TVs and air conditioners. This phone can be found used or refurbished through online retailers.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and availability may vary depending on your region and carrier.
Why IR Blasters Still Matter
Despite their decline, IR blasters still offer several benefits:
- Convenience: IR blasters provide a convenient way to control devices without the need for separate remotes, making them ideal for home entertainment systems or for users who frequently switch between devices.
- Universal remote functionality: IR blasters can learn and mimic the IR signals of other remotes, allowing users to consolidate their remote collection into a single device.
- Remote access: IR blasters enable users to control devices from another room or even from outside, as long as there is a clear line of sight between the phone and the device.
Alternatives To IR Blasters
If you’re unable to find a phone with an IR blaster, there are alternative solutions:
- Smart remote apps: Apps like AnyMote, IR Universal Remote, and Remote Control for TV offer IR blaster-like functionality through their smartphone apps. These apps often rely on the phone’s speaker or headphone jack to transmit IR signals.
- Dedicated IR blaster devices: External IR blaster devices, like the IrBlaster or the FLIRC, can be connected to a phone or tablet via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, providing IR control capabilities.
These alternatives may not offer the same level of convenience as a built-in IR blaster, but they can still provide a suitable solution for users seeking to control devices using their smartphone.
Conclusion
While IR blasters may no longer be a standard feature in modern smartphones, they still hold value for users seeking convenience and control over their devices. If you’re in the market for a phone with an IR blaster, explore the options mentioned above or consider alternative solutions. Who knows? You might just find yourself enjoying the nostalgic charm of controlling your TV with your phone, just like in the good old days.
What Is An IR Blaster?
An IR blaster, short for Infrared blaster, is a feature found in some smartphones that allows them to control other devices that use infrared signals, such as TVs, air conditioners, and DVD players. It’s essentially a remote control built into your phone. The IR blaster emits infrared signals that can communicate with these devices, allowing you to change channels, adjust the volume, and even turn them on and off.
The IR blaster is usually located on the top of the phone, and it looks like a small LED or a tiny window. It’s a simple yet convenient feature that can replace your traditional remote controls, making it easy to manage your devices without having to juggle multiple remotes.
How Does An IR Blaster Work?
An IR blaster works by emitting infrared signals that are received by the device being controlled. The phone’s IR blaster sends out a signal, which is then detected by the device, allowing it to perform the desired action. For example, if you want to change the channel on your TV, the IR blaster on your phone sends a signal to the TV, which then changes the channel accordingly.
The IR blaster uses a combination of hardware and software to work. The hardware component is the IR LED or window that emits the infrared signal, while the software component is the app that controls the IR blaster. The app translates your commands into infrared signals that the device can understand, allowing you to control it remotely.
What Kind Of Devices Can Be Controlled With An IR Blaster?
An IR blaster can control a wide range of devices that use infrared signals, including TVs, DVD players, air conditioners, fans, and even some consumer appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. It can also control other devices like projectors, cameras, and even some medical equipment.
The possibilities are endless, and the list of compatible devices is growing as more manufacturers adopt IR technology. Some phones even come with built-in IR databases that allow you to control devices from different manufacturers, making it easy to find the right code for your specific device.
Are IR Blasters Still Used Today?
While IR blasters were once a common feature in many smartphones, they have largely fallen out of favor in recent years. Many newer phones no longer include IR blasters, and some manufacturers have even removed them from their flagship models.
However, IR blasters can still be found in some budget-friendly phones and specialty devices like smart remotes. Additionally, some manufacturers continue to include IR blasters in their phones as a way to differentiate themselves from the competition.
What Are Some Advantages Of Having An IR Blaster?
One of the main advantages of having an IR blaster is the convenience it offers. With an IR blaster, you can control multiple devices from a single device, eliminating the need to juggle multiple remotes. This can be especially useful for people who have a lot of devices in their living room or home theater.
Another advantage of IR blasters is that they can be more reliable than traditional remotes. Because IR signals are line-of-sight, they are less prone to interference from other devices. This means that you’re less likely to experience issues with your IR blaster compared to traditional remotes.
Are There Any Alternatives To IR Blasters?
Yes, there are several alternatives to IR blasters. One popular alternative is Bluetooth remotes, which use radio frequency signals to communicate with devices. Another option is Wi-Fi remotes, which use your home’s Wi-Fi network to control devices.
There are also proprietary technologies like WiDi and Chromecast that allow you to control devices wirelessly. Additionally, some devices come with their own remote control apps that allow you to control them using your phone or tablet.
Can I Still Use My Phone As A Remote Control Without An IR Blaster?
Yes, there are still ways to use your phone as a remote control even if it doesn’t have an IR blaster. Many devices come with their own remote control apps that allow you to control them using your phone or tablet. These apps often use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to communicate with the device.
Another option is to use third-party apps that allow you to control devices using your phone’s Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities. These apps often use proprietary protocols to communicate with devices, but they can still provide a similar experience to using an IR blaster.