While smartphones have steadily moved away from certain legacy ports and features, the infrared blaster remains a surprisingly relevant tool for many users. An IR blaster allows a smartphone to act as a universal remote, sending commands to televisions, air conditioners, soundbars, and other entertainment devices. For anyone who has ever fumbled for a misplaced remote or wanted to control their living room setup from a single app, understanding which phones have ir blasters is the first step toward a more integrated experience.
Why IR Blasters Still Matter in Modern Smartphones
The persistence of the IR blaster highlights a gap in the otherwise seamless integration of smart home technology. Unlike Wi-Fi or Bluetooth controls, which require devices to be on the same network or paired, infrared offers a simple line-of-sight solution that works with a vast array of existing appliances. For users who own multiple devices from different brands, a phone with an IR blaster eliminates the need for several physical remotes. This practicality keeps the feature relevant even as newer control methods emerge.
Flagship Smartphones With IR Blasters
Several flagship devices continue to include the infrared port, catering to users who prioritize home automation and multimedia control. These models typically integrate the feature without adding significant bulk, maintaining the sleek design expected of high-end devices. Below is a look at some of the most notable options currently available.
Infrared-Enabled Flagship Models
Mid-Range and Budget Options With IR Support The feature is not exclusive to premium devices; many mid-range and budget smartphones retain the IR blaster due to its low-cost implementation and high user demand. For consumers building a smart home setup or managing multiple entertainment devices, choosing a phone with an IR port can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing external hubs or additional remotes. These models prove that practical functionality can exist across various price points. Accessible Devices With Infrared Capability Redmi Note series (select models) Poco X series (certain iterations) Realme GT Neo series Motorola Edge and Moto G Stylus variants How to Verify IR Blaster Compatibility
The feature is not exclusive to premium devices; many mid-range and budget smartphones retain the IR blaster due to its low-cost implementation and high user demand. For consumers building a smart home setup or managing multiple entertainment devices, choosing a phone with an IR port can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing external hubs or additional remotes. These models prove that practical functionality can exist across various price points.
Accessible Devices With Infrared Capability
Redmi Note series (select models)
Poco X series (certain iterations)
Realme GT Neo series
Motorola Edge and Moto G Stylus variants
Not every model within a product line includes the hardware, and specifications can vary by region or carrier version. The most reliable method is to check the detailed specifications on the manufacturer’s official website or the device’s product page before purchase. Physical inspection of the phone’s side, near the top, can also provide a clue, as the IR emitter is often housed in a small, darkened plastic section that resembles a camera module.
