Amazon has alerted certain Fire TV and Echo users that one of its smart products, the Fire TV Blaster, is being discontinued permanently. The device will cease functioning “in the coming weeks.” Initially designed to provide hands-free voice controls for home theaters, the Fire TV Blaster worked in conjunction with a Fire TV Stick or smart speaker to enable users to control soundbars, adjust volume, and change channels via Alexa voice commands.
The Fire TV Blaster was taken off the market a year ago due to complex setup issues and negative reviews. Amazon introduced the Fire TV Cube as an alternative, offering similar functionalities in a more user-friendly manner.
According to Amazon, 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 have rendered the standalone IR blaster unnecessary.
Current Fire TV Blaster owners have been informed that the device will soon become inoperable. In the US, 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.
Amazon’s communication to customers who bought the Fire TV Blaster stated that support for the device will be discontinued, leading to its cessation of functionality within the following weeks. Additionally, Amazon is offering to recycle old Fire TV Blasters at no cost, with users only needing to print a shipping label and return the device.
