Amazon has alerted certain Fire TV and Echo users that one of its smart products, the Fire TV Blaster, will cease to function permanently in the near future. The Fire TV Blaster initially provided hands-free voice controls for home theatre systems when paired with a Fire TV Stick or smart speaker.
Upon installation, the Fire TV Blaster enabled users to manage soundbars, adjust volume, and change channels on set-top boxes through Alexa voice commands. The product was discontinued a year ago due to complex setup issues and was overshadowed by the more user-friendly Fire TV Cube, which offered similar functionalities.
Amazon stated that the Fire TV Blaster served its purpose during a transitional phase in the smart home industry. However, advancements in technology and the evolution of other Fire TV products rendered the standalone IR blaster obsolete.
Current Fire TV Blaster owners have been informed that the device will permanently cease operations. In the U.S., owners have 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.
According to an email obtained by AFTVnews, Amazon notified customers who had purchased a Fire TV Blaster about the impending discontinuation of support, leading to the device’s shutdown.
In addition to providing discounts on the Fire TV Cube and gift cards, Amazon offers free recycling of old Fire TV Blasters. Users only need to print a shipping label and return the device for recycling.