Does the Samsung Galaxy S8 Have an IR Blaster?

Samsung Galaxy S8, like many other flagship phones in its generation, does not have an IR blaster. This has been a point of concern for some users who were accustomed to the convenience that the IR blaster brings, especially when controlling older home entertainment devices.

What is an IR Blaster?

An IR blaster is a device that transmits infrared signals. This technology is particularly useful for controlling devices that are typically operated via remote control, such as televisions, DVD players, and other home entertainment systems. When paired with a Samsung Smartphone, the phone's IR blaster can function as a remote control for these devices.

The Evolution of Samsung's IR Blaster

Some of Samsung's earlier smartphones did come equipped with an IR blaster, including models such as:

Samsung Galaxy Note 3 Samsung Galaxy S4 Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini Samsung Galaxy Mega Samsung Galaxy Note 3 Neo Samsung Galaxy Note 4 Samsung Galaxy S5 Samsung Galaxy S6 Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge Samsung Galaxy S6 Active All Samsung E series phones

However, starting with the Samsung Galaxy S8, Samsung has opted to phase out the inclusion of IR blasters in favor of more modern, WiFi-based smart remotes. In 2015, the Samsung Galaxy S6 was the last flagship model to include the integrated IR blaster functionality.

Alternative Solutions for IR Control

While the Galaxy S8 and subsequent models lack the built-in IR blaster, there are still ways to achieve similar functionality. Here are a couple of alternative solutions:

1. External IR Blaster Device

If you still require the functionality of an IR blaster, you can purchase an external IR blaster device online. These devices can be connected to your Samsung Galaxy S8 via Bluetooth and can function as a remote control for your home entertainment system.

2. Downloading IR Remote Control Apps

Another approach is to download IR remote control apps from the Google Play Store. These apps often provide users with the ability to control their home entertainment devices via their smartphones. Some popular options include:

Infrared Remote Control RemoteControl IR Remote Control

When using these apps, you may need to pair your phone with an external IR blaster or use a Wi-Fi-based remote, depending on the device's compatibility.

Conclusion

While the Samsung Galaxy S8 has moved away from the traditional IR blaster, modern alternatives can still provide the same level of convenience. By using external IR blasters or specialized remote control apps, users can enjoy the same functionality as those that had the built-in IR blaster in earlier models. Keep in mind, however, that some manufacturers, such as Xiaomi, still continue to offer products with integrated IR blaster technology.

For more information, consider checking out product reviews on sites like Google Play or Amazon. Additionally, forums like Reddit and tech blogs often provide detailed insights and user feedback on these devices and apps.