How To Use IR Blaster On Phone

That’s precisely what an IR blaster does! It is a powerful feature that lets you control your air conditioners, TVs, music systems, and even the set-top box with your phone as a universal remote. Let’s understand how to use the IR blaster on your phone so you can control your appliances better.

What are IR Blasters on Phones?

• What IR stands for:

   

IR blaster stands for Infrared blaster. It’s a tiny transmitter built into the top edge of your smartphone. 

• Invisible communication:

   

IR blasters emit infrared light signals, the same as your TV remote. Human beings cannot see them, but electronic devices can detect them and treat them as signals from a regular remote.

• No internet dependence:

   

Once the IR blaster is set up, it works without Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making it super convenient. All you need is a compatible app and a working IR blaster, and you can easily control your devices.

Why Use an IR Blaster on Your Phones? 

• One universal remote:

   

Instead of juggling five different remotes for your TV, AC, set-top box, sound system, and fan, you can control them all with just one device.

• Backup:

   

If you have faced a situation where you misplace your actual remote or its batteries have run out, your phone serves as a good replacement. 

• Custom controls:

   

IR apps let you customise settings so you can have personalised remotes for different rooms or devices.

• Smart automation:

   

IR blaster apps allow you to create macros. So, you can combine commands, add delays between commands, or trigger a set of commands with just one click.

How to Check if Your Phone Has an IR Blaster?

You want to use an IR blaster phone, but you are not sure if your phone has this feature. Here’s how you can check:

• Check the top edge:

   

Look for a tiny black or dark red circular sensor near the headphone jack or the power button.

• Phone specifications:

   

Google your phone model plus “IR blaster” or visit the manufacturer’s official website, or look up your model on the website GSMA Arena. You will get a clear answer.

• Explore settings:

   

Go to Settings > search for “remote” or “infrared”. Some phones list “IR Remote” or “Infrared” under Additional Settings or Connectivity Options. 

• Try a remote app:

   

Download “Mi Remote” or “Universal Remote Control”. If the app detects an IR sensor, your phone must support it.

• Use your voice assistant:

   

Ask your voice assistant if your phone has an IR blaster for a quick answer.

How to use IR Blasters on Android Phones?

Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to use the IR blaster on Android:

Step 1: Get the app

Check for a built-in IR app on your phone (e.g., Mi, Remote, Galaxy Smart Remote, or similar). If there is no such app, download one from the Play Store, such as “AnyMote” or “Sure Universal Remote”.

Step 2: Add device type

Open the app and press on “Add Remote”, “Add Device”, or the plus sign. Pick the kind of device you want to control. (Options like TV, AC, DVD player, set-top box, etc.)

Step 3: Choose your brand

The device’s brand list is provided in the app. Choose your brand. (Like Samsung, LG, Sony, etc.)

Step 4: Check the connection

Point your phone’s IR blaster at your device and tap the Power or Volume button as prompted. If your device responds, you are set.

Step 5: Customise and save

Rename your remote, add devices, adjust channels, temperature, or volume to start controlling your devices.

Troubleshooting Issues for Using IR Blasters

Issue: Device not responding

Solution: Recheck your brand and model selection in the app, or ensure you are pointing directly at the device (maintaining a clear line of sight within 15-20 feet).

Issue: App not responding

Solution: Clear the app’s cache, update it, restart your phone, reinstall the app, or try a different app.

Issue: Wrong remote codes

Solution: Select a different brand or model. Try a generic code rather than specific ones.

Conclusion 

IR blasters are not as common in newer smartphones, but if you do have one, it is convenient to use. Since wi-fi dependence is not an issue, using your phone as a universal remote helps you go clutter-free. It is a simple, powerful feature.