Remember the days when your phone could control your TV, AC, or even a DVD player? If you owned a smartphone in the early 2010s, you might recall a small, mysterious port on the top: an Infrared (IR) blaster. This tiny feature was basically a universal remote, letting you command almost any infrared device with a tap. Not every innovation can become a staple in your everyday usage, unlike playing online Azurslot, which, thanks to the mobile app, you can now do anytime, anywhere!
But today, these are nearly extinct… But why did they vanish? And why do some tech enthusiasts still miss them? Let’s dive into the rise, fall, and possible return of this forgotten piece of tech.
What Was an IR Blaster?
An IR blaster was a small infrared transmitter built into some smartphones, working just like a TV remote. It sent invisible light signals to control electronics.
How Did It Work?
At its core, it functioned much like the remotes that had been a staple of living rooms for decades. It emitted pulses of infrared light, invisible to the human eye but perfectly tuned for communication with TVS, sound systems, and other household electronics.
When phones like the Samsung Galaxy S4 and HTC One integrated it, they came preloaded with software capable of replicating the command codes of countless remotes.
With just a few taps, users could wield their device as a universal controller, effortlessly turning televisions on and off, adjusting volume, switching inputs, and even managing rudimentary smart home functions, long before Wi-Fi and Bluetooth became the dominant standards. What made it so appealing was its simplicity: it required no network connection, no complicated pairing process, and no extra hardware beyond the phone itself.
The Golden Age
For a brief but memorable period in the early to mid-2010s, IR blasters enjoyed a surprising prominence in the market. Major manufacturers, including Samsung, LG, and Xiaomi, embraced the feature, embedding it in flagship models like the Galaxy S5, LG G3, and Xiaomi Mi 5. Consumers quickly grew fond of the convenience it offered. No more frantic searches for misplaced remotes or frustrating encounters with incompatible hotel TV systems.
Instead, a smartphone could step in as a reliable, all-in-one solution. The appeal wasn’t just about nostalgia for older technology; it was about practicality. In an era before voice assistants and IoT ecosystems dominated home automation, they provided an immediate, no-fuss way to interact with everyday electronics.
Why Did They Disappear?
Despite their usefulness, the invention slowly vanished, and by 2017, most manufacturers stopped including them. Here’s why:
1. The Rise of Smart Home Tech
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth took over. Instead of IR, people started using:
- Voice assistants (Alexa, Google Assistant)
- Smart hubs (like Philips Hue or SmartThings)
- App-based controls (for Wi-Fi-enabled devices)
These methods were more powerful—they didn’t need line-of-sight, could work remotely, and supported more features.
2. Design & Space Constraints
Smartphones became slimmer and more packed with tech. Manufacturers had to prioritise:
- Bigger batteries
- More cameras
- 5G antennas
3. Few People Actually Used Them
While IR blasters were cool, most users didn’t rely on them daily. Many didn’t even know their device had one! Without strong demand, brands saw no reason to keep it.
Why Some Want It Back
Even though they’re mostly gone, a small but passionate group still wants IR blasters to return. Here’s why:
1. No Internet? No Problem
Unlike Wi-Fi controls, the older model works without internet or power-hungry apps. If your Wi-Fi goes down, an IR blaster still works.
2. Universal Compatibility
Many older devices (hotel TVS, projectors, air conditioners) only work with IR. If you travel often, an IR phone is a lifesaver.
3. Nostalgia & Practicality
Some users just miss the simplicity. No setup, no accounts—just point and control.
Brands That Still Have Them
A few brands still include them in some models, like:
- Xiaomi Redmi Note series
- Poco phones
- Some Huawei models
But they’re rare in flagship devices.
It’s unlikely they’ll return to mainstream phones, but there’s still hope for niche users.
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