The iPhone 7, released by Apple in 2016, marked a significant shift in the design and features of the popular smartphone. One feature that had been present in previous iPhone models but seemed to be missing from the iPhone 7 was the infrared (IR) blaster. This left many users wondering if the iPhone 7 indeed lacked this functionality or if there were any workarounds available. In this article, we will explore whether the iPhone 7 has an IR blaster and provide essential information for those seeking to utilize this feature.
What Is An IR Blaster And How Does It Work?
An IR blaster, or infrared blaster, is a hardware component that allows a device to emit infrared signals to control other electronic devices like TVs, air conditioners, DVD players, and more. It acts as a remote control by sending these signals, which are encoded commands, to the target device.
IR blasters work on the principle of line-of-sight communication, meaning they require an unobstructed line of sight between the blaster and the device being controlled. When a user presses a button on their device, the IR blaster translates that action into an infrared signal, transmitting it to the target device. The target device receives the signal, decodes it, and executes the corresponding command.
This technology has been widely used in smartphones as it eliminates the need for multiple remote controls and provides convenience for users. However, the iPhone 7 does not feature an IR blaster, which has disappointed some users who were accustomed to using their smartphones as universal remote controls.
Stay tuned to discover alternative methods and solutions to control devices with the absence of an IR blaster in the iPhone 7.
The Absence Of The IR Blaster In The IPhone 7: A Disappointment For Some Users
The exclusion of the IR blaster from the iPhone 7 has left many users disappointed. An IR blaster is a hardware feature that allows a device to act as a universal remote for various electronics, such as TVs, air conditioners, and DVDs. It emits infrared signals that can be interpreted by these devices, enabling users to control them through their smartphones.
The absence of this feature in the iPhone 7 means that users can no longer use their smartphones to control their home theaters or other IR-enabled devices. This has frustrated individuals who were accustomed to the convenience and simplicity of using their iPhones as universal remotes.
Many users had relied on their iPhones to consolidate their remote controls into a single device, eliminating the need to juggle different remotes. Not having an IR blaster means they now have to resort to multiple remotes or alternate methods for controlling their devices.
Overall, the absence of the IR blaster in the iPhone 7 has proved to be a disappointment for users who valued its functionality and ease of use.
Alternative Methods For Controlling Devices Without An IR Blaster
Alternative methods for controlling devices without an IR blaster have become popular among iPhone 7 users who miss this feature. One such method is using a Wi-Fi-enabled universal remote control app. These apps allow users to connect their iPhone 7 to their home Wi-Fi network and control their devices through the app using a network-based connection. The app acts as a bridge between the iPhone and the device, sending commands wirelessly.
Another alternative method is using smart home devices and hubs. With the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT), many devices now support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to control their devices through smartphone apps or voice assistants like Siri or Alexa.
A growing number of manufacturers are also introducing smart adapters or mini IR blasters that can be plugged into the iPhone’s lightning port. These small accessories bring back the IR blaster functionality, allowing users to control their devices using their iPhone 7.
While these alternative methods offer solutions for controlling devices without an IR blaster, they may not work for all devices or situations. It is important for users to research and ensure compatibility before opting for any alternative method.
The Reasons Behind Apple’s Decision To Exclude The IR Blaster In The IPhone 7
Apple’s decision to exclude the IR blaster from the iPhone 7 was met with disappointment by many users. However, there are several reasons behind this decision that should be considered.
One primary reason is the growing popularity of wireless technologies such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for device connectivity. Apple has been steering towards a more wireless future, and the removal of the IR blaster aligns with this vision. With the increasing number of smart devices that can be controlled through various wireless methods, such as smart home hubs or dedicated apps, Apple may have concluded that the need for an IR blaster has diminished.
Another important factor is the desire for slimmer and more compact designs. The IR blaster requires additional components and circuitry, which can add bulk to the phone. By removing the IR blaster, Apple was able to create a sleeker and thinner device.
Lastly, Apple has been focused on enhancing the user experience through its own ecosystem and services. By excluding the IR blaster, Apple aims to encourage users to rely more on Apple’s devices and services for controlling their home entertainment systems, such as using an Apple TV as a hub or using the Apple Home app for home automation.
While the absence of the IR blaster in the iPhone 7 may disappoint some users who heavily rely on it for controlling various devices, Apple’s decision is a result of a strategic direction towards wireless connectivity, sleeker designs, and an emphasis on its own ecosystem.
How To Check If Your IPhone 7 Has An IR Blaster
If you are unsure whether your iPhone 7 has an IR blaster, there are a few ways to check. First, you can visually inspect your phone to see if there is a small circular sensor located near the top edge of the device. This sensor is typically used for the IR blaster functionality. However, starting with the iPhone 7, Apple removed the IR blaster from their devices, so you are unlikely to find this sensor.
Another option is to check Apple’s official specifications for the iPhone 7. Apple provides detailed information about each device on their website, and if the iPhone 7 has an IR blaster, it will be listed in the specifications. However, Apple clearly states that the iPhone 7 does not have an IR blaster, so you can save yourself some time by skipping this step.
Lastly, you can also try using an app that utilizes the IR blaster, such as a universal remote app. If your iPhone 7 does not have an IR blaster, the app will not be able to communicate with your devices.
Exploring Rumors Of The IR Blaster Returning In Future IPhone Models
Despite the absence of an IR blaster in the iPhone 7, there have been persistent rumors circulating about its potential return in future iPhone models. Apple has always been known for staying ahead in terms of technology and innovation, and reintroducing the IR blaster may be a step in that direction.
One of the main reasons for these rumors is the growing popularity of smart home devices and the need for a central control system. With an IR blaster, users can easily control their home appliances such as TVs, air conditioners, and sound systems from their iPhones. This convenience factor has been greatly missed by iPhone users, and Apple may be looking to address this demand.
Additionally, with the advancement of infrared technology, it is now possible to integrate smaller and more powerful IR blasters into smartphones without compromising design and functionality. This may further support the speculations of its return in future iPhone models.
While Apple has not officially confirmed these rumors, the possibility of an IR blaster making a comeback in future iPhone models remains an exciting prospect for users who value convenience and seamless control over their devices.
Third-party Solutions For Adding IR Blaster Functionality To The IPhone 7:
While the iPhone 7 does not come with an IR blaster, there are third-party solutions available that can add this functionality to your device. These solutions typically come in the form of external accessories that connect to your iPhone via the Lightning port or Bluetooth.
One popular option is the IR blaster dongle, which plugs into the Lightning port and acts as a universal remote control for your home entertainment devices. These dongles usually come with apps that allow you to control your TV, air conditioner, and other infrared devices directly from your iPhone.
Another option is a Bluetooth-enabled IR blaster, which can be placed in the room where your devices are located and connected to your iPhone via Bluetooth. These IR blasters typically have a wider range than the dongles, allowing you to control your devices from a greater distance.
It’s important to note that these third-party solutions may not offer the same level of integration and convenience as a built-in IR blaster. However, if you are in need of IR blaster functionality on your iPhone 7, these accessories can provide a viable solution.
FAQs
1. Can I control my TV or other devices using the iPhone 7?
No, the iPhone 7 does not have an IR blaster feature. Unlike some previous models, it lacks the ability to emit infrared signals to control various home entertainment devices.
2. Are there any alternatives to control devices without an IR blaster on the iPhone 7?
Yes, there are alternative methods to control devices without an IR blaster on the iPhone 7. You can utilize Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-based apps that connect to compatible smart home devices or use universal remote control apps that work via Wi-Fi networks.
3. Is it possible to add an IR blaster to the iPhone 7?
No, it is not possible to add an IR blaster to the iPhone 7. The hardware required for emitting infrared signals is not present in this model, so it cannot be enabled or added externally.
4. Which iPhone models do have an IR blaster?
Apple’s iPhone models, including the iPhone 7, do not have built-in IR blasters. Previous iPhone models, such as the iPhone 6 and older, also lack this feature. If an IR blaster is a requirement for you, you may need to consider other smartphone brands that offer this functionality.
Verdict
In conclusion, the iPhone 7 does not have an IR blaster, which is an infrared sensor that allows the phone to function as a universal remote control. This feature was present in some previous iPhone models but was removed in the iPhone 7. While the lack of an IR blaster might be disappointing for some users who relied on this functionality, it is important to note that there are other options available for controlling devices remotely, such as using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections, and accessing smart home features.