Amazon has alerted certain Fire TV and Echo users that one of its smart products, the Fire TV Blaster, will soon be discontinued. The company confirmed that the device will cease functioning “in the coming weeks.” Initially designed to provide hands-free voice controls for home theaters, the Fire TV Blaster could interact with Fire TV Stick or smart speakers to manage soundbars, adjust volume, and change channels through Alexa voice commands.
The Fire TV Blaster was taken off the market a year ago due to complex setup issues and unfavorable reviews. Amazon replaced it with the more user-friendly Fire TV Cube, which offered similar functionalities. According to Amazon, the device served its purpose during a transitional phase in the smart home industry, but advancements in technology and the evolution of other Fire TV products made the standalone IR blaster unnecessary.
Owners of the Fire TV Blaster in the US are being offered the option to exchange it for a discounted Fire TV Cube. In the UK, purchasers will receive a £34.99 gift card automatically credited to their accounts. Amazon has notified users via email about the discontinuation of support for the Fire TV Blaster and the impending halt of its functionality.
In addition to providing discounts on the Fire TV Cube and gift cards, Amazon will recycle old Fire TV Blasters free of charge. Users only need to print a shipping label and return the device for recycling.
