The Samsung Galaxy S8, released in 2017, was a flagship smartphone that boasted an array of innovative features and sleek design. One of the features that many users were eager to know about was the presence of an IR blaster. An IR blaster, or infrared blaster, is a component that allows a smartphone to control electronic devices such as TVs, air conditioners, and DVD players. In this article, we will delve into the details of whether the Samsung S8 has an IR blaster, its implications, and what alternatives are available for users who require this functionality.
Introduction to IR Blasters
Before we dive into the specifics of the Samsung S8, it’s essential to understand what an IR blaster is and how it works. An IR blaster is a small component that emits infrared signals, which can be received by electronic devices. This allows the smartphone to send commands to these devices, effectively turning the phone into a remote control. IR blasters are commonly used in smartphones to control TVs, set-top boxes, air conditioners, and other appliances.
History of IR Blasters in Samsung Devices
Samsung has a history of including IR blasters in some of its devices. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge, released in 2015, came with an IR blaster. However, the trend of including IR blasters in smartphones has been declining in recent years, with many manufacturers opting to exclude this feature in favor of other technologies such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.
Reasons for Excluding IR Blasters
There are several reasons why smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung, may choose to exclude IR blasters from their devices. One reason is the increasing use of smart home devices that can be controlled using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. Another reason is the limited range and compatibility of IR blasters, which can only control devices that are within line of sight and have an IR receiver. Additionally, the space and cost associated with including an IR blaster can be significant, leading manufacturers to prioritize other features.
Does the Samsung S8 Have an IR Blaster?
Now, to answer the question that has been on everyone’s mind: does the Samsung S8 have an IR blaster? Unfortunately, the answer is no. The Samsung S8 and S8+ do not come with an IR blaster. This decision was likely made to reduce costs, save space, and focus on other features that are more widely used by consumers.
Implications of Not Having an IR Blaster
The absence of an IR blaster on the Samsung S8 may have significant implications for users who rely on this feature. For instance, users who want to control their TV or air conditioner using their smartphone will need to explore alternative options. However, it’s worth noting that many modern devices can be controlled using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, which may reduce the need for an IR blaster.
Alternatives to IR Blasters
If you’re looking for alternatives to IR blasters, there are several options available. One option is to use a Wi-Fi-based remote control app, which can control devices that are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Another option is to use a Bluetooth-based remote control app, which can control devices that are paired with the smartphone using Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, some devices may come with their own dedicated remote control apps, which can be used to control the device using the smartphone.
Workarounds and Solutions
While the Samsung S8 does not have an IR blaster, there are still some workarounds and solutions available for users who require this functionality. One option is to use a third-party IR blaster accessory, which can be connected to the smartphone using a USB or audio jack. Another option is to use a smart home hub, which can control multiple devices using a single interface.
Third-Party IR Blaster Accessories
There are several third-party IR blaster accessories available on the market, which can be used with the Samsung S8. These accessories typically connect to the smartphone using a USB or audio jack and can be used to control devices that have an IR receiver. Some popular options include the IR Blaster by Anker and the IR Remote Control by Aukey.
Smart Home Hubs
Smart home hubs are another option for users who want to control multiple devices using a single interface. These hubs can connect to devices using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other protocols and can be controlled using a smartphone app. Some popular smart home hubs include the Samsung SmartThings Hub and the Wink Hub.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Samsung S8 does not have an IR blaster. While this may be a disappointment for some users, there are still several alternatives and workarounds available. Users can explore options such as Wi-Fi-based remote control apps, Bluetooth-based remote control apps, and dedicated remote control apps. Additionally, third-party IR blaster accessories and smart home hubs can provide a solution for users who require IR blaster functionality. As technology continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see more innovative solutions for controlling devices using smartphones.
- IR blasters are a component that allows a smartphone to control electronic devices such as TVs and air conditioners.
- The Samsung S8 does not have an IR blaster, but there are alternative options available, including Wi-Fi-based remote control apps and third-party IR blaster accessories.
By understanding the options available and exploring alternative solutions, users can still enjoy the convenience of controlling their devices using their smartphone, even if it doesn’t have an IR blaster. Whether you’re looking to control your TV, air conditioner, or other appliances, there’s likely a solution available that can meet your needs.
Does the Samsung S8 have an IR blaster?
The Samsung S8 does not have a built-in IR blaster. This feature was available in some of the older Samsung models, such as the Galaxy S6, but it was discontinued in later models, including the S8. The IR blaster allowed users to control other devices, such as TVs and air conditioners, using their smartphone. However, with the advancement of technology, other methods of controlling devices have become more popular, making the IR blaster less necessary.
Although the S8 does not have an IR blaster, there are alternative methods to control other devices. For example, many smart devices can be controlled using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. Users can download apps that allow them to control their devices remotely, such as smart TVs and soundbars. Additionally, some devices come with their own remote control apps, making it easy to control them using a smartphone. While the lack of an IR blaster may be a disappointment for some users, there are still many other ways to control devices using the S8.
What is an IR blaster and how does it work?
An IR blaster is a device that emits infrared signals to control other devices. It works by sending IR signals to the device being controlled, which then receives the signal and performs the desired action. IR blasters are commonly used in remote controls to control devices such as TVs, DVD players, and air conditioners. In the context of smartphones, an IR blaster allows users to control these devices using their phone, eliminating the need for a separate remote control.
The IR blaster uses a small LED to emit the IR signal, which is then received by the device being controlled. The signal is encoded with specific commands, such as turning the device on or off, changing the channel, or adjusting the volume. The device being controlled has an IR receiver that decodes the signal and performs the desired action. IR blasters are relatively simple devices, but they can be very convenient for controlling multiple devices using a single device, such as a smartphone.
Are there any alternative methods to control devices without an IR blaster?
Yes, there are several alternative methods to control devices without an IR blaster. One popular method is using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity to control smart devices. Many smart devices, such as smart TVs and soundbars, can be controlled using apps on a smartphone. These apps allow users to control the device remotely, adjusting settings and performing actions such as turning the device on or off. Another method is using a separate remote control device, such as a universal remote control, which can control multiple devices using a single device.
Another alternative method is using voice assistants, such as Alexa or Google Assistant, to control devices. Many devices are compatible with these voice assistants, allowing users to control them using voice commands. For example, users can say “turn on the TV” or “adjust the volume” to control their devices. Additionally, some devices come with their own remote control apps, making it easy to control them using a smartphone. These alternative methods provide users with a range of options to control their devices, even without an IR blaster.
Can I use a third-party IR blaster app on my S8?
Yes, there are several third-party IR blaster apps available for the S8, but they may not work as well as a built-in IR blaster. These apps use the phone’s camera LED or other components to emit IR signals, but they may not be as powerful or reliable as a dedicated IR blaster. Additionally, these apps may require root access or other modifications to the phone, which can be risky and may void the warranty. However, for users who need to control devices using an IR signal, these apps may be a viable option.
Before using a third-party IR blaster app, users should research the app and read reviews to ensure it is compatible with their device and the devices they want to control. Some popular IR blaster apps include IR Universal Remote and Smart IR Remote. These apps can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and may offer a free trial or demo version to test their functionality. Users should also be aware of the potential risks and limitations of using these apps, such as battery drain or interference with other devices.
Are there any external IR blaster devices that can be used with the S8?
Yes, there are several external IR blaster devices that can be used with the S8. These devices are usually small and portable, and can be connected to the phone using a cable or wirelessly using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. They work by emitting IR signals to control devices, and can be used to control a wide range of devices, including TVs, soundbars, and air conditioners. Some popular external IR blaster devices include the IR Blaster by Anker and the Smart Remote by Logitech.
External IR blaster devices can be a convenient option for users who need to control devices using an IR signal. They are often easy to set up and use, and can be controlled using a smartphone app. Some devices also come with additional features, such as voice control or scheduling, which can be useful for automating tasks or controlling devices remotely. However, users should research the device and read reviews to ensure it is compatible with their phone and the devices they want to control, and to understand any potential limitations or drawbacks.
Will the lack of an IR blaster affect the overall performance of the S8?
No, the lack of an IR blaster will not affect the overall performance of the S8. The IR blaster is a relatively simple feature that is not essential to the phone’s core functionality. The S8 is a powerful and feature-rich device that offers many advanced features, such as a high-resolution display, fast processor, and advanced camera. The lack of an IR blaster may be a disappointment for some users, but it will not impact the phone’s performance or functionality in any significant way.
In fact, the S8 offers many other features and technologies that make it a great device for controlling and interacting with other devices. For example, the phone’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allow users to control smart devices and stream content to other devices. The phone’s advanced camera and sensor technology also enable features such as augmented reality and gesture recognition. Overall, the lack of an IR blaster is a minor omission that does not detract from the S8’s overall performance and capabilities.
Are there any plans to release an S8 model with an IR blaster?
There are no plans to release an S8 model with an IR blaster. Samsung has discontinued the IR blaster feature in its newer models, including the S8, and has instead focused on other features and technologies, such as wireless charging and water resistance. The company has also emphasized the use of other methods to control devices, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and has developed apps and software to support these methods.
However, users who need an IR blaster may consider purchasing an older Samsung model that still has this feature, such as the Galaxy S6 or S7. Alternatively, they can consider purchasing a third-party IR blaster device or app, as mentioned earlier. It’s also worth noting that Samsung may release future models with an IR blaster, but there are no current plans to do so. Users should stay tuned to Samsung’s announcements and updates to stay informed about any new features or technologies that may be released in the future.