The smartphone market is rife with features that enhance user experience, and one feature that often intrigues consumers is the infrared (IR) blaster. The Samsung Galaxy S7, released back in March 2016, is a smartphone that boasts numerous high-end features. However, many prospective buyers wonder: does the Samsung S7 have an IR blaster? This article dives deep into this question, exploring the capabilities of the S7, its related technologies, and how it compares to other devices on the market.
Understanding the IR Blaster
Before we can answer the question regarding the S7, it’s essential to understand what an IR blaster is and how it functions.
What is an IR Blaster?
An IR blaster is a small hardware component that allows a device to communicate with other electronic devices via infrared signals. It mimics the functionalities of remote controls, making it a handy tool for controlling TVs, air conditioners, and other home appliances directly from your smartphone. This means you can conveniently switch channels, adjust the volume, or change the temperature without needing multiple remotes.
How Does the IR Blaster Work?
The mechanism is relatively straightforward. When you press a button on your smartphone that has an IR blaster, the signal is sent out in the infrared spectrum. The receiving device, equipped with its own infrared receiver, picks this signal up and responds accordingly. This technology is reliable for short distances, typically not exceeding a range of about 10 meters.
Does the Samsung S7 Have an IR Blaster?
Now to the crux of the matter—does the Samsung Galaxy S7 come equipped with an IR blaster? The answer is yes—the Samsung Galaxy S7 does have an IR blaster. This functionality allows users to control a variety of electronic devices directly from their phone, making daily interactions more seamless and convenient.
Exploring the Features of the Samsung S7
The Samsung S7 was designed with a plethora of features that cater to users looking for a robust smartphone experience. Along with the IR blaster, let’s explore some of the key features that define this device.
Design and Display
The Galaxy S7 features a sleek design with a glass front and back, giving it a premium look and feel. The 5.1 inches Super AMOLED display offers stunning colors and deep contrasts, ideal for watching videos or gaming.
Camera Capabilities
One of the standout specifications of the Samsung S7 is its camera. The 12 MP rear camera is known for its dual pixel technology, enabling exceptional low-light photography. Meanwhile, the 5 MP front camera is perfect for selfies and video calling.
Performance and Battery Life
Powered by either the Exynos 8890 or Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 processor, depending on the market, the S7 delivers reliable performance. Coupled with the 4 GB of RAM, this phone can handle multitasking and resource-heavy applications with ease. The 3,000 mAh battery ensures longevity, keeping you unplugged throughout the day, and it features fast charging and wireless charging capabilities.
Using the IR Blaster: Practical Applications
Once you have determined that your Samsung S7 includes an IR blaster, it’s important to understand how to use it effectively. While it serves as a tool for controlling a variety of devices, users also need to know which applications to utilize for an optimal experience.
Compatible Applications
Although the S7 includes an IR blaster, its effectiveness is largely dependent on compatible applications that can utilize this feature. Samsung’s SmartThings app is a strong choice for controlling smart home devices, while apps like Peel Smart Remote serve as universal remote applications for a variety of electronic devices, such as TVs and set-top boxes.
Setting Up the IR Blaster
To set up the IR blaster on your Samsung S7, follow these steps:
- Download a Compatible App: Install either Samsung’s own SmartThings app or Peel Smart Remote from the Google Play Store.
- Configure Your Devices: Open the app and follow the instructions to configure your devices. You will usually need to select the type of device (TV, air conditioner, etc.) and the brand.
- Test the Remote: Ensure that the setup works by trying to control the device using your Samsung S7.
Comparing the Samsung S7 to Other Devices
While the IR blaster is a notable feature of the Galaxy S7, how does it stack up against other models, especially newer ones?
The Galaxy S8 and Beyond
With the launch of the Samsung Galaxy S8, there was a significant shift in design and functionality. Samsung chose to eliminate the IR blaster in the S8 and subsequent models, focusing more on other connectivity features. This decision might leave fans of the IR functionality longing for the S7’s integration.
Other Brands
While Samsung phased out the IR blaster in many of their newer devices, other manufacturers still embrace this feature. Brands such as Xiaomi, LG, and a few others continue to incorporate IR blasters into their smartphones, appealing to users who want to maintain traditional remote functionalities.
Benefits of Having an IR Blaster
The IR blaster provides several advantages that can simplify everyday tasks. Here are some benefits that users of the Galaxy S7 experience:
- Convenience: Consolidate your remote controls into one device—your smartphone.
- Cost-Effective: Prevent the need to purchase universal remote controls or smart home devices that require additional remotes.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy S7 undoubtedly comes equipped with an IR blaster, allowing users to control a wide range of devices seamlessly. Although many newer models have opted out of this feature, the S7 remains an excellent choice for those who value the versatility of an IR blaster. From enhancing convenience to consolidating device controls, the S7 provides a well-rounded user experience that can still appeal to today’s consumers. Whether you are switching up your TV channels or adjusting the AC from the comfort of your couch, the S7’s IR blaster adds significant value to this impressive smartphone.
Does the Samsung S7 have an IR Blaster?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S7 does come equipped with an infrared (IR) blaster. This feature allows the device to function as a universal remote control for various electronic devices, such as TVs, sound systems, and other home appliances. Users can access the IR blaster through compatible apps, enabling them to control their devices seamlessly.
This inclusion of an IR blaster in the Galaxy S7 sets it apart from many modern smartphones that no longer carry this feature. It provides added convenience for users who desire a single device to manage their electronic gadgets without the need for multiple remote controls.
What can I control with the IR blaster on the Galaxy S7?
With the IR blaster on the Samsung Galaxy S7, you can control a wide range of devices, including televisions, set-top boxes, projectors, and air conditioners. Most smartphones with IR capabilities use applications such as Peel Smart Remote, which helps to set up and customize controls for various electronic devices, making it easy to switch between them.
Additionally, the IR blaster on the Galaxy S7 can be programmed to work with multiple devices from different manufacturers. This versatility makes it a practical tool for anyone looking to streamline their home entertainment system and reduce clutter by consolidating remote controls into one device.
How do I use the IR blaster on my Galaxy S7?
Using the IR blaster on your Galaxy S7 is quite simple. First, you need to download a compatible remote control app, such as the Peel Smart Remote or SmartThings, from the Google Play Store. Once installed, the app will guide you through the setup process, including selecting the devices you want to control and configuring the necessary settings.
After setup, you can use the app to navigate through channels, adjust volume, and manage other functionalities just like you would with a standard remote control. This makes it a user-friendly feature that enhances your smartphone’s capabilities while providing a convenient way to manage your electronic devices.
Is the IR blaster on the Galaxy S7 powerful?
The IR blaster on the Samsung Galaxy S7 is designed to be effective for controlling household devices from a reasonable distance. While the exact range may vary depending on the device being controlled and environmental factors like obstacles, most users find that the IR blaster works well within typical living spaces. Commonly, the range is around 15 to 30 feet, which is generally adequate for typical home use.
However, it’s essential to note that the effectiveness can diminish if there are obstructions, such as furniture or walls, between the phone and the device being controlled. For optimal performance, it’s best to point the phone directly at the IR receiver of the device you wish to control without major obstructions in the way.
Can I use the IR blaster for smart home devices?
While the IR blaster on the Galaxy S7 is primarily intended for traditional electronic devices like TVs and DVD players, it is limited when it comes to modern smart home devices. Many smart home products operate using Wi-Fi or Zigbee protocols instead of infrared technology, meaning the IR blaster cannot directly control them.
However, you can still manage smart devices through compatible apps that connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. The Samsung SmartThings app is particularly effective for this purpose, as it pulls together various smart home devices for centralized control. This allows you to combine the functionalities of your Galaxy S7’s IR blaster with other technologies for comprehensive home management.
Will the IR blaster work with all TV brands?
The IR blaster on the Galaxy S7 is designed to be compatible with a wide range of TV brands. Popular brands such as Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio are typically supported, as remote control apps incorporate these manufacturers into their databases. As a result, users can easily set up their devices within the applications, following the prompts to sync their TVs with the smartphone.
However, there may be cases with less common brands or older models where compatibility could be an issue. It is advisable to check the app’s device list or user reviews before attempting to set up a remote function for unfamiliar brands to ensure a smooth experience.
Do I need any special settings to use the IR blaster?
To use the IR blaster on your Galaxy S7, primarily, you need to ensure that the remote control application (such as Peel Smart Remote) is properly installed and configured on your device. Once the app is installed, you’ll be guided through the setup process, which requires you to select the type of device you want to control and input the brand for accurate configuration.
Aside from the app setup, there are no unique settings on the phone itself that you need to adjust to activate the IR blaster. Just make sure that the app has the necessary permissions to access your device’s IR transmitter, and you’re good to go. From there, you can enjoy controlling your other devices seamlessly through your Galaxy S7.
What should I do if the IR blaster is not working?
If the IR blaster on your Galaxy S7 is not functioning properly, the first step is to ensure that the remote control app you are using is correctly configured. Double-check that you have selected the right device and brand in the app, and that any necessary settings are appropriately set. It can also be helpful to restart the app or your phone to refresh the connection.
If the problem persists, try clearing the cache or even reinstalling the application to resolve any potential software glitches. Additionally, make sure that there are no obstructions blocking the line of sight between your phone’s IR blaster and the device you are trying to control, as any barriers can affect the infrared signal. If all else fails, consulting the app’s help section or Samsung’s customer support might provide further assistance.