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 announced 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The Fire TV Blaster was withdrawn from the market a year ago due to complex setup issues and received unfavorable reviews. Amazon introduced the more user-friendly Fire TV Cube, which offered similar functionalities. The company stated that the Fire TV Blaster served its purpose during a transitional phase in the smart home industry but became obsolete with the advancement of technology and other Fire TV products that eliminated the need for a standalone IR blaster.
Owners of the Fire TV Blaster are being informed that the device will permanently stop operating, with US users given the option to exchange it for a discounted Fire TV Cube. In the UK, purchasers will receive a £34.99 gift card automatically added to their accounts.
Amazon’s email to Fire TV Blaster owners explained, “In the coming weeks, support for the Fire TV Blaster will be discontinued, and the device will stop working.” Additionally, Amazon is offering discounts on the Fire TV Cube and gift cards while providing free recycling services for old Fire TV Blasters. Users only need to print a shipping label and return the device.
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