Amazon has alerted certain Fire TV and Echo users that one of its smart products, the Fire TV Blaster, will soon be discontinued. The device, known for providing hands-free voice controls for home theatre systems when paired with a Fire TV Stick or smart speaker, will cease operations in the upcoming weeks.
Initially designed to enable actions like turning off soundbars, adjusting volume, and changing channels through Alexa voice commands, the Fire TV Blaster was taken off the market a year ago due to challenging setup processes and received unfavorable reviews. Amazon later introduced the Fire TV Cube, offering similar functionalities in a more user-friendly package.
Amazon stated that the Fire TV Blaster served its purpose during a transitional phase in smart home technology, but advancements in new technologies and the evolution of other Fire TV products have rendered the standalone IR blaster unnecessary.
Current Fire TV Blaster owners have been informed that the device will permanently cease functioning. In the US, owners are given the option to exchange their Blaster for a discounted Fire TV Cube. In the UK, buyers will receive a £34.99 gift card automatically credited to their accounts.
An email sent to Fire TV Blaster purchasers explained the discontinuation of support and functionality of the device in the near future. Amazon also offers to recycle old Fire TV Blasters at no cost, with users required to print a shipping label and return the device for recycling purposes.