Amazon has alerted certain Fire TV and Echo users that one of its smart products, the Fire TV Blaster, is set to 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 theater systems when paired with a Fire TV Stick or smart speaker, the Fire TV Blaster could manage soundbars, volume adjustments, and channel changes through Alexa voice commands.
The Fire TV Blaster was taken off the market a year ago due to complex setup issues and mixed reviews. Amazon introduced the Fire TV Cube, a more user-friendly alternative with similar functionalities, which contributed to the decline in demand for the Fire TV Blaster.
According to Amazon, the Fire TV Blaster fulfilled its purpose during a transitional phase in the smart home industry. However, advancements in technology and the development of other Fire TV products rendered the standalone IR blaster obsolete. Owners of the Fire TV Blaster have been informed that the device will permanently cease operation, with U.S. customers offered the option to exchange it for a discounted Fire TV Cube.
In the UK, customers who purchased the Fire TV Blaster will receive a £34.99 gift card automatically credited to their accounts. 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.
Email notifications sent to Fire TV Blaster owners stated, “In the coming weeks, support for the Fire TV Blaster will be discontinued, and the device will stop working.” Additionally, Amazon mentioned that it will provide discounts on the Fire TV Cube and gift cards, along with free recycling services for old Fire TV Blasters.
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