Amazon has alerted certain Fire TV and Echo users about the impending discontinuation of one of its smart products. The device in question, known as Fire TV Blaster, will cease functioning permanently in the upcoming weeks. Initially designed to provide hands-free voice controls for home theaters, the Blaster operated in conjunction with a Fire TV Stick or smart speaker.
Upon installation, the Fire TV Blaster facilitated tasks such as powering off soundbars, adjusting volume levels, and switching channels on set-top boxes through Alexa voice commands.
The product was withdrawn from the market a year ago following negative feedback related to complex setup procedures. Amazon introduced the popular Fire TV Cube as an alternative, offering similar functionalities in a more user-friendly manner.
Amazon acknowledged 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.
Current Fire TV Blaster owners have been informed that the device will soon become inoperable. U.S. owners have the option to exchange it for a Fire TV Cube at a reduced price, while UK customers who purchased the device will receive a £34.99 gift card credited automatically to their accounts.
In an email communication, Amazon stated, “We’re emailing because you purchased a Fire TV Blaster – an accessory for hands-free control of soundbars and TVs when combined with a Fire TV Stick and Echo device.” The email detailed that support for the Fire TV Blaster will be discontinued in the coming weeks, rendering the device non-functional.
Aside from providing discounts on the Fire TV Cube and gift cards, Amazon announced a free recycling program for old Fire TV Blasters. Users can print a shipping label to return the device for recycling.
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