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, the Fire TV Blaster provided hands-free voice controls for home theater 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 using voice commands through Alexa. The product was taken off the market a year ago due to complex setup issues and underwhelming reviews. Amazon introduced the Fire TV Cube as an alternative, offering similar functionalities in a more user-friendly manner.
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 unnecessary. Owners of the Fire TV Blaster have been informed that the device will permanently cease operations. U.S. customers have the option to exchange it for a discounted Fire TV Cube, while UK customers will receive a £34.99 gift card automatically.
In an email communication to customers who purchased the Fire TV Blaster, Amazon conveyed that support for the device will be discontinued soon, resulting in its cessation of functionality. In addition to offering discounts and gift cards, Amazon will facilitate the free recycling of old Fire TV Blasters. Users can simply print a shipping label and return the device for recycling purposes.