The iPhone 11 series, released in 2019, brought numerous exciting features and upgrades to the table. However, one feature that has been noticeably absent from Apple’s flagship devices for several years is the infrared (IR) blaster. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of IR blasters, explore their uses, and answer the burning question: does the iPhone 11 have an IR blaster?
What is an IR Blaster?
An IR blaster, also known as an infrared transmitter, is a small device that emits infrared radiation to control electronic devices. IR blasters are commonly used in remote controls to operate TVs, air conditioners, soundbars, and other appliances. They work by sending IR signals to the device’s IR receiver, which then interprets the signals and performs the desired action.
Uses of IR Blasters
IR blasters have a wide range of applications, including:
- Controlling TVs, soundbars, and other home entertainment systems
- Operating air conditioners, heaters, and other HVAC systems
- Controlling lighting systems and smart home devices
- Using IR-enabled cameras and other photography equipment
Does iPhone 11 Have an IR Blaster?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. The iPhone 11 series, including the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max, does not have a built-in IR blaster. Apple has not included IR blasters in their iPhones since the iPhone 6s, and it seems unlikely that they will bring back this feature in future models.
Why Doesn’t iPhone 11 Have an IR Blaster?
There are a few reasons why Apple might have decided to omit the IR blaster from the iPhone 11:
- Design and space constraints: IR blasters require a dedicated hardware component, which takes up space inside the device. Apple might have prioritized other features, such as improved cameras or a larger battery, over the IR blaster.
- Limited use cases: IR blasters are not as widely used as they once were, and many devices now use alternative control methods, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
- Alternative control methods: Apple might be promoting alternative control methods, such as using the iPhone’s built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities to control devices.
Alternatives to IR Blasters
If you’re looking for ways to control devices without an IR blaster, there are several alternatives available:
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Control
Many devices, including smart home appliances and soundbars, can be controlled using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. You can use apps on your iPhone to connect to these devices and control them remotely.
IR Blaster Accessories
If you still want to use an IR blaster with your iPhone, you can purchase IR blaster accessories that connect to your device via the Lightning port or Bluetooth. These accessories can be used to control devices that require IR signals.
Universal Remotes
Universal remotes are another option for controlling devices without an IR blaster. These remotes can be programmed to work with multiple devices and often include IR blasters.
IR Blaster Apps
There are several IR blaster apps available for iPhone that can be used to control devices. These apps often require an IR blaster accessory or a device with a built-in IR blaster. Some popular IR blaster apps include:
- IR Remote
- IR Blaster
- Remote Control
How IR Blaster Apps Work
IR blaster apps work by sending IR signals to the device’s IR receiver. These signals are generated by the app and transmitted through the IR blaster accessory or the device’s built-in IR blaster.
Conclusion
While the iPhone 11 does not have a built-in IR blaster, there are still several alternatives available for controlling devices. Whether you choose to use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth control, IR blaster accessories, universal remotes, or IR blaster apps, you can still enjoy the convenience of remote control.
Final Thoughts
The absence of an IR blaster on the iPhone 11 might be a disappointment for some users, but it’s not a deal-breaker. With the many alternatives available, you can still control your devices and enjoy the features and functionality of your iPhone.
| iPhone Model | IR Blaster |
|---|---|
| iPhone 6s | Yes |
| iPhone 7 | No |
| iPhone 8 | No |
| iPhone X | No |
| iPhone 11 | No |
Note: The table above shows the IR blaster availability for different iPhone models.
What is an IR Blaster and how does it work?
An IR Blaster, also known as an infrared blaster, is a device that emits infrared signals to control electronic devices such as TVs, air conditioners, and soundbars. It works by sending IR signals to the device’s IR receiver, which then interprets the signals and performs the desired action. IR Blasters are commonly found in remote controls, but some smartphones also have this feature built-in.
IR Blasters use a small LED to emit IR signals, which are then modulated to encode the desired command. The IR receiver on the device being controlled decodes the signal and performs the corresponding action. IR Blasters are widely used in consumer electronics and are a convenient way to control multiple devices with a single remote or device.
Does the iPhone 11 have an IR Blaster?
No, the iPhone 11 does not have an IR Blaster. Apple has never included an IR Blaster in any of its iPhone models, including the iPhone 11. This means that you cannot use your iPhone 11 to control devices that rely on IR signals, such as TVs or air conditioners.
However, there are alternative ways to control these devices using your iPhone 11, such as using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. Many devices now come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control them using apps on your iPhone. You can also use third-party IR Blaster accessories that connect to your iPhone via the Lightning port or Bluetooth.
What are the alternatives to IR Blasters on iPhone 11?
There are several alternatives to IR Blasters on the iPhone 11, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Many devices now come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control them using apps on your iPhone. For example, you can use the Apple TV app to control your Apple TV, or use the Philips Hue app to control your smart light bulbs.
Another alternative is to use third-party IR Blaster accessories that connect to your iPhone via the Lightning port or Bluetooth. These accessories can emit IR signals to control devices that rely on IR signals. Some popular IR Blaster accessories for iPhone include the IR Universal Remote Control and the Satechi IR Remote Control.
Can I use a third-party IR Blaster accessory with my iPhone 11?
Yes, you can use a third-party IR Blaster accessory with your iPhone 11. There are many IR Blaster accessories available on the market that are compatible with the iPhone 11. These accessories usually connect to your iPhone via the Lightning port or Bluetooth and can emit IR signals to control devices that rely on IR signals.
When choosing a third-party IR Blaster accessory, make sure to check compatibility with your iPhone 11 and the devices you want to control. Some popular IR Blaster accessories for iPhone include the IR Universal Remote Control and the Satechi IR Remote Control. You can also read reviews and check the product’s ratings to ensure that it works well with your devices.
How do I choose the best IR Blaster accessory for my iPhone 11?
When choosing an IR Blaster accessory for your iPhone 11, there are several factors to consider. First, make sure to check compatibility with your iPhone 11 and the devices you want to control. You should also consider the range and accuracy of the IR signal, as well as the ease of use and setup.
Another important factor to consider is the price and value for money. IR Blaster accessories can range in price from under $10 to over $50, depending on the features and quality. You should also read reviews and check the product’s ratings to ensure that it works well with your devices and is reliable. Some popular IR Blaster accessories for iPhone include the IR Universal Remote Control and the Satechi IR Remote Control.
Are IR Blasters still relevant in today’s technology landscape?
While IR Blasters are not as widely used as they once were, they are still relevant in today’s technology landscape. Many devices, such as TVs and air conditioners, still rely on IR signals for control. IR Blasters are also still widely used in consumer electronics, such as remote controls and universal remotes.
However, with the increasing adoption of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the need for IR Blasters is decreasing. Many devices now come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for more convenient and flexible control options. Nevertheless, IR Blasters remain a useful technology for controlling devices that rely on IR signals, and are still widely used in many applications.
Can I use my iPhone 11 to control my TV without an IR Blaster?
Yes, you can use your iPhone 11 to control your TV without an IR Blaster. Many modern TVs come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control them using apps on your iPhone. For example, you can use the Apple TV app to control your Apple TV, or use the Samsung SmartThings app to control your Samsung TV.
Another option is to use a streaming device such as Apple TV, Google Chromecast, or Amazon Fire TV, which can connect to your TV and allow you to control it using your iPhone. These devices usually come with their own remote controls, but you can also use your iPhone to control them using the corresponding app. This allows you to control your TV without the need for an IR Blaster.