When it comes to flagship smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE (Fan Edition) has truly made a significant mark in the mobile market. Combining cutting-edge technology with an attractive price point, it has garnered a loyal fanbase and is often mentioned in discussions surrounding the best mid-range smartphones. However, as enthusiasts and everyday users explore its features, a recurring question arises: Does the Samsung S20 FE come with an IR blaster?
In this article, we’ll dissect this query, delve into the significance of the IR blaster, and explore other exciting features that the Samsung S20 FE has to offer.
What Is an IR Blaster?
An IR (Infrared) blaster is a feature found in many smartphones that allows the device to control various devices like televisions, air conditioners, and other appliances that use infrared remote controls. Essentially, it turns your smartphone into a universal remote, giving users the convenience of controlling multiple devices from a single gadget.
The Importance of IR Blasters in Modern Smartphones
In a world where remote controls clutter our living spaces, the emergence of smartphones with IR blasters offers a streamlined solution. The advantage of having an IR blaster on a smartphone lies in its ability to:
- Consolidate Remote Controls: By utilizing your smartphone as a universal remote, you can reduce the number of physical remotes in your home.
- Convenience: Always having a remote in your pocket or purse means you can control your devices from anywhere without needing to locate a specific remote.
While many modern smartphones have phased out this feature, others still find it advantageous.
Do Samsung Smartphones Come with IR Blasters?
Samsung has historically included IR blasters in many of its flagship devices. For instance, the Galaxy S4, S5, and Note series featured this functionality, much to the delight of those who enjoyed its convenience. However, as newer models were released, the trend saw a decline in IR blaster inclusion.
The Samsung S20 Series Overview
The Galaxy S20 series was released in early 2020 and offered a range of devices, including the Galaxy S20, S20+, and S20 FE. Each model came with its own set of features, appealing to varying consumer preferences.
- Galaxy S20: The standard model that set the foundation for this series.
- Galaxy S20+: A step-up version that offered more advanced camera features and a larger display.
- Galaxy S20 FE: A Fan Edition designed to make flagship features accessible to a wider audience with a more budget-friendly approach.
Does the Samsung S20 FE Have an IR Blaster?
The short answer is no. The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE does not feature an IR blaster. While it encompasses an impressive array of specifications, such as a vibrant display, powerful camera capabilities, and long-lasting battery life, the absence of an IR blaster is a noticeable drawback for some users.
Why the Absence of an IR Blaster Matters
For many, the lack of an IR blaster might not be a deal-breaker, especially as smart home technology advances and alternative solutions become available. However, several reasons reflect why some users still favor devices with this feature:
- Legacy Devices: Many people continue to own traditional TVs and other appliances that utilize IR technology.
- Nostalgia and Convenience: For some users, using their smartphone as a remote is not just about convenience; it’s also a matter of habit.
Alternative Features of the Samsung S20 FE
While the absence of an IR blaster is a notable point of discussion, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE counters this with a variety of impressive features that enhance user experience.
Display Quality
The S20 FE boasts a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels. This means users can enjoy vibrant colors, deep blacks, and high contrast ratios, making it perfect for streaming videos, gaming, and general browsing.
- 120Hz Refresh Rate: One of the standout features is the 120Hz refresh rate, which allows for smooth scrolling and a responsive feel when navigating through activities.
Camera Features
Equipped with a triple-camera system, the S20 FE excels in photography. This setup includes a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 12MP wide-angle lens, and an 8MP telephoto lens. Highlighted features are:
- Night Mode: Promises stunning shots even in low light.
- Super Steady Video: Developed to produce fluid and stable videos without shake.
Performance and Battery Life
The Samsung S20 FE is powered by either the Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 processor (depending on the region), coupled with 6GB or 8GB of RAM. This configuration enables effective multitasking and optimal gaming performance.
- Long-lasting Battery: Featuring a 4500mAh battery, it supports fast charging and wireless charging, ensuring users stay connected throughout the day.
Software and Updates
Running on Samsung’s One UI atop Android, the S20 FE promises a user-friendly experience with frequent updates. Users can expect new features and security patches, keeping their device modern and secure.
5G Connectivity
As a forward-thinking device, the Galaxy S20 FE supports 5G, promising users lightning-fast internet speeds and improved performance for data-heavy tasks.
Conclusion: Is the Absence of an IR Blaster a Deal-Breaker?
In conclusion, while the Samsung S20 FE does not come equipped with an IR blaster, it more than makes up for this omission with its array of other impressive features. Users seeking a powerful smartphone with a premium experience will find the S20 FE compelling—highlighted by its display quality, camera capabilities, performance, and battery life.
Ultimately, whether the lack of an IR blaster is a deal-breaker depends on individual user needs and preferences. For those who prize the convenience of a universal remote, exploring alternatives such as smart remote control apps or opting for a different model that includes an IR blaster may be worthwhile.
In a landscape where smartphones continually evolve to meet user demands, the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE stands tall as a significant player without the need for an IR blaster. Users should weigh their priorities and choose the device that best aligns with their lifestyle and technological requirements.
Does the Samsung S20 FE have an IR blaster?
No, the Samsung S20 FE does not come equipped with an IR blaster. Samsung made the decision to remove the IR blaster feature in many of their recent smartphone models, including the S20 FE. This omission means that users cannot use the device to control various appliances, such as TVs or air conditioners, which is a common use for IR blasters.
Many Samsung users who have come to rely on this feature will have to look for alternative solutions. There are other ways to control smart devices, such as using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-enabled applications. Therefore, if having an IR blaster is essential for you, it might be worth considering other smartphone options from Samsung or devices from different brands that still include this functionality.
What is an IR blaster?
An IR blaster, or infrared blaster, is a technology that allows your smartphone to send signals to other devices, such as TVs, DVD players, and air conditioning units. It works by emitting infrared signals, similar to those used by traditional remote controls. This can make it convenient to control multiple devices from one device, thereby reducing the clutter of multiple remotes.
With an IR blaster, users can easily change channels, adjust volume, and perform other remote control functions directly from their smartphones. This feature is particularly useful for those who often use smart TVs or other home entertainment systems as it simplifies the remote control experience by leveraging a single device for controls.
Why did Samsung remove the IR blaster from the S20 FE?
Samsung’s decision to remove the IR blaster from the S20 FE reflects a broader trend in the smartphone industry where many manufacturers have opted to focus on wireless connections rather than traditional IR technology. As smart home devices increasingly utilize Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, the need for an IR blaster has diminished, prompting companies to streamline their devices by removing features that are less commonly used.
Additionally, by omitting the IR blaster, manufacturers can reduce costs and design a slimmer device. This can also simplify the overall user experience by encouraging users to rely on smart applications and cloud connectivity for controlling home entertainment systems and other compatible devices instead of using a physical IR emitter.
Can I control my TV with the Samsung S20 FE?
While the Samsung S20 FE does not have an IR blaster, you can still control your TV through other means. Many modern TVs now support mobile apps that allow users to control their televisions via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This means that you can download your TV manufacturer’s app on your S20 FE and use it to change channels, adjust volume, and navigate smart TV interfaces.
Additionally, if you have a smart home setup, you may be able to integrate your TV with other smart devices, allowing you to use voice commands through voice assistants like Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, which can further enhance your control over the device.
Are there apps available that replicate the IR function?
While there are many apps available that can control devices over Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, specific apps that replicate the IR function won’t work on the Samsung S20 FE since it lacks an IR blaster. Instead, these alternatives rely on the network capabilities of your devices instead of infrared signals. Manufacturers often provide their own apps for this purpose, which can effectively replace the functions traditionally provided by IR blasters.
Some third-party universal remote apps might allow you to control multiple devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network. While they cannot replicate traditional IR functionality, they often provide a variety of control options for smart TVs, set-top boxes, and even some appliances compatible with such networks.
What are the alternatives to IR blasters?
With the absence of an IR blaster, users can turn to several alternatives for controlling their devices. Smart home technologies that operate via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are becoming increasingly popular. Devices that support these technologies allow for app-based control, often providing more features compared to traditional IR remote controls.
Smart remotes are also an option; these devices can control multiple electronics and often come with their own app. Additionally, utilizing smart home hubs or voice assistants can consolidate the control of various devices, allowing users to manage everything from streaming devices to smart lighting using their smartphone or voice commands.
Is it worth buying the Samsung S20 FE if I need an IR blaster?
If having an IR blaster is a deal-breaker for you, it may be worth exploring other smartphone options. There are other models available on the market that still include this feature, particularly in different price ranges. The removal of the IR blaster may limit some of the convenience that users have come to expect from smartphones that previously offered this functionality.
However, if you are looking for a well-rounded device with strong performance, a high-quality camera, and excellent software features, the Samsung S20 FE could still be a great choice. Weighing the importance of having an IR blaster against the device’s overall capabilities will help you make a more informed decision. Consider your device usage patterns and whether alternative control methods will suffice for your needs.
How can I control my appliances without an IR blaster?
There are several ways to control appliances without relying on an IR blaster. Many devices today are compatible with smart technology, allowing you to control them through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth via mobile apps. Manufacturers of TVs, set-top boxes, and even home appliances often offer dedicated applications to facilitate this type of control.
Another option is to invest in smart home devices that are designed for seamless integration with smartphones. Devices like smart plugs, smart hubs, and smart remotes often use wireless technologies to connect to your Wi-Fi network and offer control over traditional devices. This can make it easy to manage appliances without needing the IR functionality previously used in older technologies.