The iPhone 12 series has been a game-changer in the world of smartphones, offering a plethora of innovative features and improvements. However, one feature that has been noticeably absent from the iPhone 12 series is the IR blaster. In this article, we will delve into the world of IR blasters, explore their functionality, and determine whether the iPhone 12 has an IR blaster.
What is an IR Blaster?
An IR blaster, also known as an infrared blaster, is a small device that emits infrared signals to control electronic devices. IR blasters are commonly used in remote controls to control TVs, air conditioners, and other appliances. They work by sending infrared signals to the device, which then interprets the signals and performs the desired action.
IR blasters have been a staple in many smartphones, particularly in Asian markets, where they are used to control a wide range of devices. However, in recent years, the use of IR blasters has declined, and many smartphone manufacturers have opted to remove them from their devices.
How Does an IR Blaster Work?
An IR blaster works by emitting infrared signals, which are then received by the device being controlled. The device then interprets the signals and performs the desired action. IR blasters typically operate on a specific frequency, usually between 30 kHz and 60 kHz.
The process of using an IR blaster is relatively simple:
- The user presses a button on the remote control or smartphone, which sends an infrared signal to the device.
- The device receives the signal and interprets it.
- The device then performs the desired action, such as turning on or off, changing the channel, or adjusting the volume.
Does the iPhone 12 Have an IR Blaster?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. The iPhone 12 series does not have an IR blaster. Apple has never included an IR blaster in any of its iPhone models, and the iPhone 12 series is no exception.
There are several reasons why Apple may have chosen not to include an IR blaster in the iPhone 12 series. One reason is that IR blasters are not as widely used as they once were. With the rise of smart home devices and voice assistants, many users are opting for more modern and convenient ways to control their devices.
Another reason is that IR blasters can be bulky and require a significant amount of space. The iPhone 12 series is designed to be sleek and compact, and the inclusion of an IR blaster may have compromised the device’s design.
Alternatives to IR Blasters
While the iPhone 12 series may not have an IR blaster, there are still several alternatives available for users who want to control their devices remotely. Some of these alternatives include:
- Smart Home Devices: Smart home devices, such as Amazon Echo and Google Home, allow users to control their devices using voice commands.
- Bluetooth Remotes: Bluetooth remotes, such as the Apple TV remote, allow users to control their devices using Bluetooth signals.
- IR Blaster Accessories: IR blaster accessories, such as the IR Blaster by Anker, allow users to add IR blaster functionality to their iPhone.
IR Blaster Apps for iPhone
While the iPhone 12 series may not have an IR blaster, there are still several IR blaster apps available that allow users to control their devices remotely. Some of these apps include:
- IR Remote: IR Remote is a popular IR blaster app that allows users to control their devices using their iPhone.
- AnyMote: AnyMote is another popular IR blaster app that allows users to control their devices using their iPhone.
These apps typically work by using the iPhone’s camera flash to emit infrared signals, which are then received by the device being controlled.
Limitations of IR Blaster Apps
While IR blaster apps can be a convenient alternative to traditional IR blasters, they do have some limitations. Some of these limitations include:
- Compatibility: IR blaster apps may not be compatible with all devices, particularly older devices that do not support infrared signals.
- Range: IR blaster apps may have a limited range, requiring users to be in close proximity to the device being controlled.
- Interference: IR blaster apps may be susceptible to interference from other devices, which can affect their performance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the iPhone 12 series does not have an IR blaster. While this may be a disappointment for some users, there are still several alternatives available, including smart home devices, Bluetooth remotes, and IR blaster accessories. Additionally, IR blaster apps can provide a convenient way to control devices remotely, although they may have some limitations.
Ultimately, the decision to include an IR blaster in a smartphone is up to the manufacturer. While some users may miss the convenience of an IR blaster, others may not notice its absence. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see whether IR blasters make a comeback or become a relic of the past.
| iPhone Model | IR Blaster |
|---|---|
| iPhone 12 | No |
| iPhone 11 | No |
| iPhone 10 | No |
Note: The table above shows the IR blaster status for different iPhone models. As can be seen, none of the iPhone models have an IR blaster.
Does the iPhone 12 have an IR blaster?
The iPhone 12 does not have an IR blaster. Apple has not included an IR blaster in any of its iPhone models since the iPhone 6. This means that the iPhone 12, like its predecessors, does not have the ability to emit infrared signals to control devices such as TVs, air conditioners, or other appliances.
The lack of an IR blaster on the iPhone 12 may be a disappointment to some users who rely on this feature to control their devices. However, there are alternative solutions available, such as using a third-party IR blaster accessory or downloading an app that can control devices via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
What is an IR blaster and how does it work?
An IR blaster is a device that emits infrared signals to control other devices. It works by sending a beam of infrared light to a receiver, which then interprets the signal and performs the desired action. IR blasters are commonly used to control devices such as TVs, air conditioners, and DVD players.
IR blasters are often used in remote controls, but some smartphones also have built-in IR blasters. However, the iPhone 12 is not one of them. If you need to control devices using an IR signal, you may need to consider using a third-party accessory or a different device.
Why did Apple remove the IR blaster from the iPhone?
Apple removed the IR blaster from the iPhone starting with the iPhone 7. The reason for this is not explicitly stated, but it’s likely due to the fact that many devices are now controlled using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, making the IR blaster less necessary.
Additionally, the removal of the IR blaster may have been a design decision to make the iPhone thinner and more compact. The IR blaster requires a physical component to emit the infrared signal, which takes up space. By removing this component, Apple may have been able to make the iPhone 12 thinner and more streamlined.
Are there any alternative ways to control devices without an IR blaster?
Yes, there are alternative ways to control devices without an IR blaster. Many devices can be controlled using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and there are many apps available that can control devices using these protocols. For example, you can use the Apple TV app to control your Apple TV, or the Philips Hue app to control your smart light bulbs.
Additionally, there are many third-party accessories available that can add IR blaster functionality to your iPhone. These accessories usually connect to your iPhone via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and can emit infrared signals to control devices. Some popular options include the IR Universal Remote Control and the Pronto Smart Remote.
Can I use a third-party IR blaster accessory with my iPhone 12?
Yes, you can use a third-party IR blaster accessory with your iPhone 12. There are many options available, ranging from simple IR blasters that plug into your iPhone’s headphone jack to more complex devices that connect via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
When choosing a third-party IR blaster accessory, make sure to check compatibility with your iPhone 12 and the devices you want to control. Some accessories may require you to download an app or configure settings before use. Be sure to read reviews and check the manufacturer’s website for more information.
Are there any benefits to using an IR blaster?
Yes, there are several benefits to using an IR blaster. One of the main benefits is convenience – with an IR blaster, you can control multiple devices from a single location, without having to get up and change the channel or adjust the volume.
Another benefit is that IR blasters can be more reliable than Wi-Fi or Bluetooth control methods, which can be affected by interference or connectivity issues. IR blasters use a direct line of sight to communicate with devices, making them less prone to interference.
Will Apple ever bring back the IR blaster to future iPhone models?
It’s unlikely that Apple will bring back the IR blaster to future iPhone models. Apple has not included an IR blaster in any iPhone model since the iPhone 6, and it seems that the company is moving away from this technology.
Instead, Apple is focusing on developing new technologies such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth control methods, which offer more flexibility and convenience. Additionally, the removal of the IR blaster has allowed Apple to make the iPhone thinner and more compact, which is likely a design priority for the company.