Last Updated on 5 months by Francis
An infrared blaster, also known as an IR blaster, is a hardware feature that allows your smartphone to function as a universal remote control. It enables you to control various electronic appliances such as TVs, DVD players, music players, AC units, projectors, and set-top boxes. However, not all smartphones have this feature, leading to confusion among users.
In this article, we will explore different ways to determine if your phone has an infrared blaster, including checking for the presence of an infrared LED, consulting the phone manual, and verifying specifications on the manufacturer’s website. We will also discuss the availability of in-built IR blaster apps and provide a list of smartphones with IR blaster support. Let’s find out if your phone can control devices using an infrared blaster.
Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Not all smartphones have an infrared blaster feature.
- Checking for the presence of an infrared LED can determine if your phone has an infrared blaster.
- Consulting the phone manual and checking the manufacturer’s website for specifications can provide information about the presence of an infrared blaster.
- Inbuilt IR blaster apps are available on phones with infrared blaster functionality.
- A comprehensive list of smartphones with IR blaster support can help confirm if your phone has this feature.
Locating the Infrared LED
One way to determine if your phone has an infrared blaster is to check for the presence of an infrared LED. The infrared LED is typically located on the top side of the phone and is a small, transparent LED that does not glow. You may have seen a similar LED on your TV remote. If your phone has an infrared LED, it is likely to have an infrared blaster functionality.
To locate the infrared LED on your phone, look for a small dot or a cut-out in the phone’s frame near the top edge. This is where the infrared LED is usually situated. Sometimes, the LED may be hidden behind the speaker grille or the front-facing camera. However, it is important to note that not all phones with an infrared LED have an infrared blaster feature, as some phones may use the LED for other purposes such as proximity sensing or facial recognition.
Checking for the presence of an infrared LED is a quick and easy way to determine if your phone is equipped with an infrared blaster. If you find the LED, it indicates that your phone has the potential to function as a universal remote control for various electronic devices.
Table: Examples of Phones with Infrared Blaster
| Phone Model | Infrared Blaster |
|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S21 | Yes |
| Apple iPhone 12 | No |
| Xiaomi Mi 11 | Yes |
| Google Pixel 5 | No |
Table shows examples of popular phone models and whether they have an infrared blaster. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and availability may vary depending on the specific phone model and region.
Consulting the Phone Manual
In addition to checking for the presence of an infrared LED, you can also consult your phone’s manual to determine if it has an infrared blaster. The manual provides detailed information about the features and functionalities of your phone, including whether it supports an infrared port or IR blaster.
Look for the specifications section in the manual, where it should mention if your phone has an infrared blaster. If there is no mention of an infrared port, it indicates that your phone does not have this feature.
Remember to keep your manual handy or refer to the manufacturer’s official website for accurate information about your phone’s capabilities.
Table: Phones with Infrared Blaster Support
| Phone Model | Infrared Blaster Support |
|---|---|
| Phone A | Yes |
| Phone B | No |
| Phone C | Yes |
| Phone D | No |
In some cases, the phone manual may not explicitly mention the presence of an infrared blaster, but you can refer to a list of smartphones with infrared blaster support. This table provides examples of different phone models and indicates whether they have an infrared blaster or not.
Consulting the phone manual and referring to a list of supported phones are effective ways to determine if your phone has an infrared blaster and can be used as a universal remote control.
Checking Specifications on Manufacturer’s Website
If you are still uncertain whether your phone has an infrared blaster, checking the official specifications on the manufacturer’s website can provide the necessary clarity. The manufacturer’s website is a reliable source of information about the features and functionalities of your phone. By navigating to the specifications page, you can look for any mention of an infrared port or IR blaster.
If your phone is equipped with an infrared blaster, it should be clearly stated in the specifications. This information not only confirms the presence of this functionality but also provides additional details about its capabilities and compatibility. It is important to note that some manufacturers may use different names for this feature, such as “IR remote control” or “remote sensor.” Thus, carefully review the specifications to ensure accurate identification.
Third-party websites like GSMArena.com can also be helpful in verifying the presence of an infrared port on your specific phone model. These websites provide comprehensive information about phone features and specifications, allowing you to cross-reference the manufacturer’s claims. By consulting these reliable sources, you can confidently determine if your phone supports infrared blaster functionality.
| Brand | Model | Infrared Blaster |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Galaxy S20 | Yes |
| Apple | iPhone 12 Pro | No |
| Xiaomi | Redmi Note 10 | Yes |
| OnePlus | 9 Pro | No |
Click here for the complete list of phones with infrared blaster support.
Checking for Inbuilt IR Blaster App
If your phone has an infrared blaster, it should come with an inbuilt or factory-installed IR blaster app. This app allows you to control various devices such as TVs, DVD players, music players, AC units, and set-top boxes. Look for the IR blaster app in your phone’s app drawer or settings. If you find the app, it confirms that your phone has infrared blaster functionality.
Having an inbuilt IR blaster app gives you the convenience of controlling multiple devices with just your phone. You can adjust the volume of your TV, change the channel on your set-top box, or control the playback of your music player, all from the comfort of your smartphone.
With the inbuilt IR blaster app, you can also create customized remote control layouts for different devices, making it even more user-friendly. This allows you to have separate layouts for your TV, DVD player, and other appliances, ensuring a seamless and intuitive control experience. Simply select the appropriate layout for the device you want to control, and you’re good to go.
Make sure to explore the features and settings of the inbuilt IR blaster app on your phone. Some apps offer additional functionalities such as macros and scheduling, allowing you to automate tasks and create personalized routines. These features enhance the overall convenience and usability of your phone’s infrared blaster.
Table: List of Phones with Infrared Blaster
| Brand | Model | Infrared Blaster |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Galaxy S21 Ultra | Yes |
| Xiaomi | Redmi Note 10 Pro | Yes |
| LG | G8 ThinQ | Yes |
| OnePlus | 9 Pro | No |
Here is a list of popular smartphones that come with an infrared blaster. These phones are known for their versatile control capabilities and allow you to easily control your electronic devices. It’s important to note that not all phone models have an infrared blaster, so make sure to check the specifications of your specific phone model.
Exploring the IR Blaster Phones List
If you are still unsure whether your phone has an infrared blaster, you can refer to a comprehensive list of smartphones with IR blaster support. This list will provide you with information about various phone models that are equipped with infrared blaster functionality. By checking this list, you can confirm if your phone is included. If your phone is not listed, it means it does not have an infrared blaster.
Having access to the IR blaster phones list can save you time and effort in searching for the right device. It eliminates the need for manual checks or searching through numerous specifications. Instead, you can simply consult the list to determine if your phone supports infrared blaster functionality.
To assist you in your search, we have compiled a table below showcasing popular smartphone models with infrared blaster support:
| Brand | Model |
|---|---|
| Samsung | Galaxy S20 |
| Xiaomi | Redmi Note 9 Pro |
| Huawei | Mate 40 Pro |
| LG | V60 ThinQ |
Please note that this is just a sample of the many smartphones available with IR blaster functionality. The list is constantly evolving as new models are released. Be sure to check for the latest updates and additions to ensure you have the most accurate information.
By referring to the IR blaster phones list, you can easily determine if your phone supports infrared blaster functionality. This can be especially useful for those who want to control their electronic devices using their smartphones. Whether you want to turn your phone into a universal remote control or simply enjoy the convenience of controlling your appliances with a single device, knowing if your phone has an infrared blaster is essential. Explore the list and discover if your phone is equipped with this handy feature.
How to Turn On IR Blaster on Android
If your Android phone has an infrared blaster, you can easily turn it on and start enjoying the convenience of controlling your devices. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Launch the Play Store on your Android phone.
- Search for an IR blaster application. There are several apps available, such as “IR Universal Remote,” “Peel Smart Remote,” and “SURE Universal Remote.”
- Download and install the IR blaster app of your choice.
- Once the app is installed, open it from your app drawer.
- The app will guide you through the initial setup process, including granting necessary permissions.
- After the setup, you’ll be prompted to choose your IR blaster device within the app.
- Select the device you want to control using your phone’s IR blaster functionality.
- You are now ready to use your Android phone as a universal remote control!
With the IR blaster app installed and your device configured, you can control a wide range of devices, including TVs, DVD players, music players, AC units, and set-top boxes. Simply launch the app, select the device you wish to control, and start enjoying the convenience of controlling your devices from one place.
“Turning on the IR blaster on Android phones allows users to turn their smartphones into powerful universal remote controls.”
Keep in mind that not all Android phones have an infrared blaster. If your phone doesn’t have this hardware feature, you won’t be able to turn on the IR blaster or control devices using infrared signals. However, there are alternative options available, such as purchasing an IR blaster adapter or using a smart remote hub IR blaster, that can add this capability to your phone.
| Device | Availability of IR Blaster |
|---|---|
| Google Pixel 5 | No |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 | No |
| OnePlus 9 Pro | No |
| Xiaomi Mi 11 | Yes |
| LG V60 ThinQ | Yes |
Note: The table above showcases a few phone models and their availability of an IR blaster. Please check the specifications of your specific phone model to determine if it has an IR blaster.
Adding IR Blaster Capability to Your Phone
If your phone does not have an IR blaster, there are alternative ways to add this capability. You can purchase a small IR blaster adapter that can be attached to your phone, allowing it to control devices via infrared signals. This compact device plugs into your phone’s headphone jack and provides the necessary IR functionality. With the adapter connected, you can now control your TVs, DVD players, and other compatible devices using your phone as a universal remote. It’s a convenient and affordable solution for those who want to enjoy the benefits of an IR blaster.
Another option to consider is using a smart remote hub IR blaster. This device connects to your phone via Wi-Fi and allows you to control multiple devices simultaneously. With the accompanying app, such as Google Home or a manufacturer-specific app, you can easily set up and manage all your connected devices. The smart remote hub IR blaster offers a seamless integration of your phone and home entertainment system, giving you the power to control everything from the palm of your hand.
Both the IR blaster adapter and the smart remote hub IR blaster provide an effective way to enhance your phone’s capabilities and transform it into a universal remote control. Whether you choose the simplicity of the adapter or the advanced features of the smart remote hub, you can now enjoy the convenience of controlling your devices without the need for multiple remotes. Upgrade your phone and take full advantage of the IR blaster functionality!
| IR Blaster Adapter | Smart Remote Hub IR Blaster | |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Compatible with most Android and iOS devices | Compatible with most Wi-Fi-enabled smartphones |
| Connection | Connects to phone’s headphone jack | Connects to phone via Wi-Fi |
| Control Range | Short-range (within a few meters) | Long-range (across rooms and floors) |
| Supported Devices | Compatible with TVs, DVD players, set-top boxes, and more | Compatible with a wide range of home entertainment devices |
| Additional Features | Basic remote control functions | Advanced features like scheduling, macros, and voice control |
Whether you choose an IR blaster adapter or a smart remote hub IR blaster, both options provide a convenient way to control your devices using your phone. With these accessories, you can easily add IR blaster capability to your phone and enjoy the benefits of a universal remote control. Say goodbye to the clutter of multiple remotes and take control of your home entertainment system with just your phone!
Conclusion
In conclusion, determining if your phone has an infrared blaster is crucial for those seeking to control their electronic devices through their smartphones. By checking for the presence of an infrared LED, consulting the phone manual, verifying specifications on the manufacturer’s website, and exploring inbuilt IR blaster apps, you can confirm if your phone supports this feature.
If your phone does not have an IR blaster, there are alternative options available. You can consider purchasing an IR blaster adapter that can be attached to your phone, enabling it to control devices via infrared signals. Another option is to use a smart remote hub IR blaster that connects to your phone through Wi-Fi and is controlled via an app like Google Home. These methods allow you to enjoy the convenience of controlling your devices with just your smartphone, even if it doesn’t have a built-in IR blaster.
Regardless of your phone’s capabilities, there are ways to enhance your device’s functionality and enjoy the convenience of controlling various electronic appliances. So, whether you have an infrared blaster or not, you can still make the most out of your smartphone and simplify your daily life.
FAQ
Does my phone have an infrared blaster?
To determine if your phone has an infrared blaster, you can check for the presence of an infrared LED, consult the phone manual, or verify the specifications on the manufacturer’s website.
How do I locate the infrared LED on my phone?
The infrared LED is typically located on the top side of the phone and is a small, transparent LED that does not glow. Check the images provided in the article for reference.
Can I find information about an infrared blaster in my phone manual?
Yes, you can consult the phone manual and look for the specifications section. If your phone has an infrared blaster, it will be mentioned there.
Where can I verify if my phone has an infrared blaster?
You can check the technical specifications of your phone on the manufacturer’s website. Look for any mention of an infrared port or IR blaster in the specifications list.
How do I check for an inbuilt IR blaster app on my phone?
If your phone has an infrared blaster, it should come with an inbuilt or factory-installed IR blaster app. Look for the app in your phone’s app drawer or settings.
Is there a list of smartphones with IR blaster support?
Yes, there is a comprehensive list of smartphones with IR blaster support. You can refer to this list to see if your phone is included.
How do I turn on the IR blaster on my Android phone?
If your Android phone has an infrared blaster, you can turn it on by launching the IR blaster application. This app is available in the Play Store.
Can I add IR blaster capability to my phone if it doesn’t have one?
Yes, there are alternative ways to add IR blaster capability to your phone. You can purchase a small IR blaster adapter or use a smart remote hub IR blaster.
