Amazon has alerted certain Fire TV and Echo users that one of its smart products, the Fire TV Blaster, will no longer be supported and will cease functioning permanently in the near future. Initially designed to provide hands-free voice controls for home entertainment systems when paired with a Fire TV Stick or smart speaker, the Fire TV Blaster allowed users to manage soundbars, adjust volume, and change channels using Alexa voice commands.
The Fire TV Blaster was discontinued a year ago following mixed reviews due to complex setup issues. Amazon introduced the Fire TV Cube as an alternative with similar capabilities but a more user-friendly interface. According to Amazon, the Fire TV Blaster served its purpose during a transitional phase in smart home technology, but advancements in new technologies and other Fire TV products made the standalone IR blaster obsolete.
Owners of the Fire TV Blaster have been informed that the device will no longer be operational, with US customers offered the opportunity to exchange it for a Fire TV Cube at a discounted price. In the UK, purchasers will receive a £34.99 gift card automatically credited to their accounts.
Amazon stated in an email to Fire TV Blaster owners, “In the coming weeks, support for the Fire TV Blaster will be discontinued, and the device will stop working.” Additionally, Amazon is providing discounts on the Fire TV Cube and gift cards while offering free recycling services for old Fire TV Blasters. Users only need to print a shipping label and return the device for recycling.