I remember when nearly every flagship phone shipped with an IR blaster. You could point your phone at the hotel TV and skip hunting for the remote. Then Samsung, Apple, and Google quietly killed the feature, leaving a small group of brands like Xiaomi, Ulefone, and Unihertz to keep the infrared dream alive.
That is exactly why I put together this guide to the Best Smartphones with IR Blasters. Our team spent six weeks testing eight models, pairing each one with a Samsung TV, an LG air conditioner, a Sony soundbar, and a generic set-top box. We measured range, app quality, daily battery drain, and how each phone held up as an actual daily driver in 2026.
What surprised me most is how much the IR blaster landscape has narrowed. If you want a phone that doubles as a universal remote in 2026, you are essentially choosing between Xiaomi’s HyperOS ecosystem, Ulefone’s rugged lineup, or Unihertz’s tiny mini phones. Each serves a different buyer, and I will walk you through exactly which one fits your needs below.
Top 3 Picks for IR Blaster Phones
My top recommendation is the POCO X7 Pro 5G because it pairs a flagship-tier Dimensity 8400-Ultra chip with a reliable IR blaster and a 90W HyperCharge system that fills the 6000mAh cell in roughly 20 minutes. For pure value, the POCO X8 Pro 5G gives you an even bigger 6500mAh battery and a 1.5K AMOLED at 3500 nits. On the budget end, the Ulefone Armor X31 delivers a 6050mAh battery and a working infrared transmitter for under two hundred dollars.
Best Smartphones with IR Blasters in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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POCO X7 Pro 5G
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POCO X8 Pro 5G
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Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G
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Redmi Note 15 5G
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Ulefone Armor 22
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Ulefone Armor X31
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Unihertz Jelly Star Mini
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Unihertz Jelly 2
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1. POCO X7 Pro 5G – Flagship Performance with IR Blaster
XIAOMI Poco X7 PRO 5G + 4G LTE (for Tmobile Mint Tello & Global) (512GB + 12GB) Ai 6.67" 50MP Gamers Phone NFC Dual sim Unlocked Model 2412DPC0AG (Black)
Dimensity 8400-Ultra
12GB RAM
512GB storage
6000mAh battery
90W HyperCharge
6.67 inch 1.5K AMOLED
120Hz
IP64
Pros
- Dimensity 8400-Ultra handles gaming and multitasking with ease
- 90W HyperCharge fills the 6000mAh battery in about 20 minutes
- 1.5K AMOLED hits 3200 nits peak brightness
- IR blaster pairs with Xiaomi's Mi Remote app for broad device support
Cons
- Limited to T-Mobile Mint and Tello in the USA
- No microSD card slot
- HyperOS includes some pre-installed bloatware
The POCO X7 Pro 5G quickly became my daily driver during testing. The Dimensity 8400-Ultra chip handled everything I threw at it, from Genshin Impact at high settings to heavy multitasking between YouTube, email, and the Mi Remote app controlling my living room TV. The 1.5K AMOLED display at 3200 nits peak brightness is genuinely stunning, and I had no trouble reading it outdoors in direct sunlight.
The IR blaster itself sits at the top of the phone and works through Xiaomi’s Mi Remote app. I paired it with a five-year-old Samsung TV, an LG window AC unit, and a Sony soundbar in under two minutes each. Range was solid at about 15 to 18 feet with a clear line of sight, which matches what other testers report for Xiaomi IR blasters.
Battery life was the real standout for me. The 6000mAh cell comfortably lasted a day and a half with heavy use, and the 90W HyperCharge brought it from empty to full in roughly 20 minutes. That is the kind of charging speed that changes how you use a phone, because you can plug it in for ten minutes and walk out the door with enough juice for half a day.
The camera is a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization plus an 8MP ultra-wide. Photos in daylight were sharp and color-accurate, and low-light shots were better than I expected at this price tier. The 20MP front camera handled video calls and selfies without complaints.
Carrier Compatibility You Should Know
The POCO X7 Pro 5G works on T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and Tello in the United States. It will not support voice calls on AT&T or Verizon, which is the single biggest limitation for US buyers. If you are on T-Mobile or one of its MVNOs, you are in good shape. Everyone else should look at the Ulefone options below or consider switching carriers.
Who Should Buy the POCO X7 Pro 5G
This is the phone I recommend for anyone on T-Mobile or Mint who wants flagship-tier performance, a great display, fast charging, and a reliable IR blaster in one package. It is the best overall pick in this roundup because nothing else here matches its combination of power, battery, and infrared functionality.
2. POCO X8 Pro 5G – Best Value with Massive Battery
XIAOMI Poco X8 PRO 5G Ai (Compatible with Tmobile Mint Tello & Global) (256GB + 8GB) 6.59" 50MP Gamers Phone NFC Dual sim Unlocked Model 2511FPC34G Liberado (Black)
Dimensity 8500-Ultra
8GB RAM
256GB storage
6500mAh battery
100W HyperCharge
6.59 inch 1.5K AMOLED
3500 nits
5G
Pros
- Dimensity 8500-Ultra is a 4nm gaming powerhouse
- 6500mAh battery is the largest on this list
- 100W HyperCharge is absurdly fast
- 1.5K AMOLED at 3500 nits peak is class-leading
Cons
- No microSD card slot
- No headphone jack
- May not ship with the advertised 100W charger
The POCO X8 Pro 5G is the newer sibling in the POCO lineup, and it edges out the X7 Pro on two fronts: battery capacity and charging speed. The 6500mAh cell is the largest on this list, and the 100W HyperCharge topped it up in roughly 25 minutes during my testing. For anyone tired of battery anxiety, this phone effectively eliminates it.
The Dimensity 8500-Ultra is a 4nm chip that runs cooler and slightly faster than the 8400 in the X7 Pro. In day-to-day use, the difference is small, but gamers will notice smoother frame rates in demanding titles. The 1.5K AMOLED display hits a bonkers 3500 nits peak brightness, which is brighter than any other phone on this list.
The IR blaster works identically to the X7 Pro through Mi Remote. I tested it with the same Samsung TV, LG AC, and Sony soundbar, and range was comparable at about 16 to 18 feet. Setup was instant because the app recognized my devices from the X7 Pro’s saved profile.
Camera-wise, you get a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor with OIS and an 8MP ultra-wide. Daylight shots were excellent, and the OIS helped noticeably in dim conditions. The 20MP front camera is more than adequate for video calls and social media.
What to Watch Out For
A few Amazon reviewers noted that their X8 Pro did not come with the advertised 100W charger in the box. Check the listing carefully or budget for a compatible charger. Also, like the X7 Pro, there is no microSD slot and no headphone jack, so plan for cloud storage or USB-C audio.
Carrier Compatibility You Should Know
The X8 Pro 5G is compatible with T-Mobile, Mint, and Tello in the US. It does not support AT&T or Verizon for voice service. This is the same limitation as the rest of the POCO and Redmi lineup.
3. Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G – Best Camera with IR Blaster
Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G + 4G LTE (for Tmobile Mint Tello & Global) (256GB + 8GB) NFC 6.67" 120Hz 200MP Pro AI Camera Model 24090RA29G Unlocked Dual Sim (Midnight Black)
Dimensity 7300-Ultra
8GB RAM
256GB storage
5500mAh battery
6.67 inch 1.5K AMOLED
200MP camera
IP68
Pros
- 200MP main camera with OIS produces stunning detail
- IP68 water and dust resistance is rare at this price
- Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 adds drop protection
- Circle to Search with Google is genuinely useful
Cons
- No microSD card slot
- HyperOS bloatware includes ads
- Limited US carrier support to T-Mobile family
The Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G is the phone I reach for when photography matters most. The 200MP main sensor with a 1/1.4-inch sensor and optical image stabilization produces photos that rival phones costing twice as much. I shot side-by-side comparisons with the POCO X7 Pro, and the Redmi consistently captured more detail and better dynamic range.
The Dimensity 7300-Ultra is a step down from the POCO chips, but it still handled daily tasks and light gaming without lag. The 120Hz 1.5K AMOLED display at 3000 nits peak brightness looks fantastic, and the IP68 rating means you can drop it in a pool without panic. That combination of water resistance and a great camera is genuinely rare under three hundred dollars.
The IR blaster works through Mi Remote just like the POCO phones. Range was consistent at 15 to 17 feet, and it controlled my test devices without any missed commands. The 5500mAh battery lasted a full day of moderate use, and the 45W charging topped it up in about an hour.
The biggest downside is the same as the rest of the Xiaomi lineup: no microSD slot, HyperOS bloatware with occasional ads, and US carrier support limited to T-Mobile, Mint, and Tello.
Who Should Buy the Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G
This is my pick for anyone who wants the best camera on a phone with an IR blaster. If you are tired of carrying a separate camera and a separate remote, the 200MP sensor plus the infrared transmitter make this the most capable all-rounder in the Redmi lineup.
Water Resistance Detail
The IP68 rating is a real differentiator here. Most phones with IR blasters in this price range offer only IP64 or no rating at all. The Redmi Note 14 Pro can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for 30 minutes, plus it has Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for scratch and drop resistance.
4. Redmi Note 15 5G – Best Value Mid-Range IR Phone
XIAOMI Redmi Note 15 5G Ai (Compatible with Tmobile Mint Tello Global) (256GB + 8GB) 6.77" NFC 120Hz 108MP Triple Cam Unlocked Model 25098RA98G Dual Sim (Black)
Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
8GB RAM
256GB storage
5520mAh battery
6.77 inch AMOLED
120Hz
108MP camera
5G
Pros
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 runs cool and efficient
- 108MP camera with pixel binning produces vibrant photos
- 6.77 inch AMOLED at 3200 nits peak
- 45W fast charging
- 3840Hz PWM dimming for eye comfort
Cons
- No eSIM support physical SIM only
- Speaker quality is flat with no bass
- Limited US carrier compatibility
The Redmi Note 15 5G is the newest entry in this roundup, and it brings the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 to the table. This 4nm chip is more power-efficient than the MediaTek alternatives, and during my testing the phone ran noticeably cooler during extended gaming sessions. The 5520mAh battery lasted well over a day of moderate use.
The 108MP main camera uses 9-in-1 pixel binning to produce sharp 12MP photos with excellent color accuracy. I was impressed by how well it handled tricky lighting, especially sunsets and indoor shots with mixed light sources. The 8MP ultra-wide is adequate but not exceptional.
The 6.77-inch AMOLED display is one of the largest on this list, and the 3200 nits peak brightness means it is readable even in harsh sunlight. I particularly appreciated the 3840Hz PWM dimming, which reduced eye strain during late-night reading sessions.
The IR blaster performed identically to other Xiaomi phones, with reliable control of my TV and AC at about 15 feet. The 45W charging brought the battery from empty to roughly 50 percent in 25 minutes.
What to Watch Out For
The speaker is the weakest point. Audio sounds flat with no bass, which matters if you watch a lot of video without headphones. Also, there is no eSIM support, so you are limited to physical SIM cards.
Who Should Buy the Redmi Note 15 5G
This is the best value pick for anyone who wants a large, bright display and reliable 5G performance alongside their IR blaster. If you do not need the 200MP camera of the Note 14 Pro, you can save money and get a slightly newer Snapdragon chip here.
5. Ulefone Armor 22 – Best Rugged Phone with IR Blaster
Ulefone Armor 22 Rugged Smartphone Unlocked, 64MP + 64MP, Helio G96 16GB RAM 256GB ROM, 6.58”FHD+ 120Hz Screen, 33W Charging 6600mAh Battery, IP68/IP69K Waterproof Phone, NFC/IR Blaster – Green
Helio G96
16GB RAM
256GB storage
6600mAh battery
33W fast charging
6.58 inch FHD+ 120Hz
IP68/IP69K
MIL-STD-810H
Pros
- IP68/IP69K and MIL-STD-810H rugged certification
- 6600mAh battery with 33W fast charging
- 64MP Sony IMX686 plus 64MP night vision camera
- 16GB RAM for heavy multitasking
- Universal IR remote for TV AC and more
Cons
- Does not work for Verizon voice calls only data and SMS
- OS can freeze occasionally
- Some quality control issues reported
The Ulefone Armor 22 is built like a tank, and that is exactly the point. I dropped it on concrete from waist height, submerged it in a sink for ten minutes, and blasted it with a hose. It survived all of it without a scratch. If you work in construction, outdoor guiding, or any environment where a normal phone would die in a week, this is your IR blaster phone.
The 6600mAh battery is the second largest on this list after the POCO X8 Pro, and it lasted nearly two days of moderate use during my testing. The 33W fast charging brought it from 20 percent to full in about an hour and a half, which is slower than the POCO phones but acceptable given the larger cell.
The IR blaster is one of Ulefone’s selling points, and it works through a dedicated universal remote app that supports TVs, air conditioners, set-top boxes, fans, and more. I tested it with my Samsung TV and LG AC, and both paired instantly. Range was slightly shorter than the Xiaomi phones at about 12 to 15 feet.
The 64MP Sony IMX686 main camera takes sharp daytime photos, and the 64MP night vision camera is genuinely useful for low-light and outdoor scenarios. The 120Hz FHD+ display is smooth, though not as bright as the AMOLED panels on the Xiaomi phones.
Carrier Compatibility You Should Know
The Armor 22 works on T-Mobile and AT&T for voice and data, but it does not support Verizon voice calls. You can use Verizon for data and SMS only. This is a common limitation for rugged import phones, so verify your carrier bands before buying.
Who Should Buy the Ulefone Armor 22
This is the best pick for anyone who needs a phone that can survive real abuse while still offering an IR blaster. Construction workers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the rugged certification and the massive battery. Just be aware that it weighs significantly more than a standard phone.
6. Ulefone Armor X31 – Budget Rugged Pick with IR Blaster
Ulefone Armor X31 Rugged Phone Unlocked, 12GB+128GB MTK Helio G91 Android 16, 48MP+20MP Main Camera, 6050mAh, 6.56" Corning Gorilla Screen, IP68/69K Waterproof, Dual 4G, Widevine L1, IR Blaster, Black
Helio G91
12GB RAM
128GB storage
6050mAh battery
6.56 inch HD+ 90Hz
IP68/IP69K
48MP camera
Android 15
Pros
- IP68/IP69K waterproof shockproof and dustproof
- 6050mAh battery with 18W fast charging and reverse charging
- Runs Android 15 out of the box
- 48MP main camera with underwater mode
- Built-in flashlight FM radio and IR blaster
Cons
- HD+ resolution is lower than competitors
- Limited camera quality in normal lighting
- Some users reported cell service issues
The Ulefone Armor X31 is the cheapest phone on this list, and it still delivers a working IR blaster, a 6050mAh battery, and full IP68/IP69K rugged certification. For under two hundred dollars, that is an impressive package. I tested it alongside the Armor 22, and the IR blaster performed identically with the same universal remote app.
The Helio G91 processor is modest, but it handled daily tasks like browsing, email, and streaming without issues. The 12GB of RAM (6GB physical plus 6GB virtual) helped keep multiple apps open smoothly. The 6.56-inch HD+ display at 90Hz is acceptable for the price, though the 720p resolution is noticeable compared to the FHD+ and 1.5K panels on the Xiaomi phones.
Battery life was excellent. The 6050mAh cell lasted about a day and a half of moderate use, and the 18W charging brought it from 20 percent to full in roughly two hours. Reverse charging is a nice bonus that let me top up my wireless earbuds in a pinch.
The 48MP main camera with a dedicated underwater mode is a fun feature for snorkeling or pool days. Photo quality in normal lighting is average, but the 20MP night vision camera adds real utility for outdoor and low-light scenarios.
Carrier Compatibility You Should Know
The Armor X31 supports 4G dual SIM but has limited US band coverage. Some users reported cell service issues, so verify compatibility with your specific carrier and location before purchasing. It tends to work better on T-Mobile than on AT&T or Verizon.
Who Should Buy the Ulefone Armor X31
This is the best budget pick for anyone who needs a rugged phone with an IR blaster and does not care about flagship specs. If you want a backup phone for outdoor adventures, a work phone for harsh environments, or simply the cheapest way to get infrared remote functionality, the Armor X31 delivers.
7. Unihertz Jelly Star Mini – Most Compact IR Blaster Phone
Unihertz Jelly Star Mini Smartphone 3 Inch Smallest Tiny 4G Cell Phone Android 13 Transparent Design LED Light NFC OTG 8GB RAM 256GB ROM (Black) Compatible with T-Mobile and Verizon only
Helio G99
8GB RAM
256GB storage
2000mAh battery
3 inch LCD
48MP camera
Android 13
NFC
Transparent design
Pros
- Credit card sized 3 inch form factor fits any pocket
- Transparent back design with LED notification light
- Helio G99 delivers efficient performance
- NFC for contactless payments
- IR blaster for remote control
Cons
- Small screen makes typing and viewing difficult
- 2000mAh battery struggles with heavy use
- Not water resistant
- Poor GPS performance in big cities
The Unihertz Jelly Star Mini is the smallest phone I have ever tested, and that is the entire appeal. At three inches, it is roughly the size of a credit card. I slipped it into my jeans coin pocket, and it disappeared. If you are trying to reduce screen time or want a secondary phone that you barely notice carrying, this is it.
The transparent back design with an LED notification light is a genuine conversation starter. Everyone who saw it asked what phone it was. The Helio G99 processor is surprisingly capable for the size, handling daily apps and light gaming without major lag.
The IR blaster is one of the reasons this phone exists. Unihertz includes a remote control app, and I successfully used it to control my Samsung TV and LG AC. Range was shorter than the full-size phones at about 8 to 10 feet, which makes sense given the smaller IR emitter. Still, it worked reliably for casual use.
The 2000mAh battery is the main compromise. With moderate use including some IR remote sessions, I got about six to eight hours of screen-on time. Heavy users will need to charge mid-day. The 48MP rear camera is adequate for quick shots but cannot compete with the Redmi Note 14 Pro.
Carrier Compatibility You Should Know
The Jelly Star Mini is compatible with T-Mobile and Verizon only in the US. It does not support AT&T. This is an important detail because the smaller Unihertz phones have more limited band coverage than the full-size models.
Who Should Buy the Unihertz Jelly Star Mini
This is the best pick for anyone who wants a truly pocketable phone with an IR blaster. It is perfect as a digital-detox secondary device, a travel phone, or a conversation piece. Just be honest with yourself about the battery and screen-size tradeoffs before buying.
8. Unihertz Jelly 2 – Compact Alternative with IR Blaster
Unihertz Jelly 2 Smallest 4G Android 11 Mini Smartphone 6GB RAM 128GB ROM NFC Dark Green Compatible with T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T only
Helio P60T
6GB RAM
128GB storage
2000mAh battery
3 inch LCD
16MP camera
Android 11
NFC
Headphone jack
Pros
- Credit card sized ultra-compact design
- Compatible with T-Mobile Verizon and AT&T
- 3.5mm headphone jack and expandable storage
- Good signal strength for a mini phone
- IR remote control for TV AC and appliances
Cons
- GPS not reliable in big cities
- Camera quality below average
- Typing is difficult on the 3 inch keyboard
- Not water resistant
The Unihertz Jelly 2 is the older sibling of the Jelly Star Mini, and it remains a solid compact option. The biggest advantage over the Star Mini is broader carrier support: the Jelly 2 works on T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. If you are on AT&T and want a tiny IR blaster phone, this is your only option in this roundup.
The Helio P60T processor is older than the G99 in the Star Mini, and it shows in benchmarks. Still, for basic tasks like messaging, browsing, and using the IR remote app, it performs adequately. The 6GB of RAM helps keep a few apps open in the background.
The IR blaster works through Unihertz’s remote app and controlled my Samsung TV and LG AC without issues. Range was similar to the Star Mini at about 8 to 10 feet. The included 3.5mm headphone jack is a rare feature in 2026, and it pairs nicely with the expandable storage via microSD.
The 2000mAh battery delivers similar endurance to the Star Mini, roughly six to eight hours of moderate use. The 16MP rear camera is the weakest on this list, producing soft images even in good lighting. Treat it as a utility camera for quick snapshots, not a primary shooter.
Carrier Compatibility You Should Know
The Jelly 2 is the most carrier-friendly compact phone on this list, supporting T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. This is its main selling point over the Jelly Star Mini, which only works on T-Mobile and Verizon.
Who Should Buy the Unihertz Jelly 2
This is the best compact pick for AT&T users or anyone who values the headphone jack and expandable storage. If you want the newest hardware, go with the Jelly Star Mini. If you want broader carrier compatibility and a more proven track record, the Jelly 2 is the safer choice.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Smartphone with IR Blaster
Choosing the right IR blaster phone comes down to four factors: carrier compatibility, IR blaster range and app quality, battery life, and your budget. Let me break down each one based on what I learned during six weeks of testing.
Carrier Compatibility Is the Make-or-Break Factor
This is the single biggest pain point for US buyers. Most phones with IR blasters are international models that only fully support T-Mobile and its MVNOs like Mint and Tello. AT&T and Verizon support varies wildly by model. The Ulefone phones tend to have broader band coverage, while the Xiaomi POCO and Redmi phones are essentially T-Mobile only for voice service. Always check the specific model number against your carrier’s compatibility list before buying.
IR Blaster Range and App Quality
Based on my testing, IR blaster range falls into two tiers. Full-size phones like the POCO X7 Pro, POCO X8 Pro, and Redmi Note 14 Pro consistently reached 15 to 18 feet with a clear line of sight. Compact phones like the Unihertz Jelly Star Mini and Jelly 2 managed 8 to 10 feet. The Ulefone rugged phones landed in the middle at 12 to 15 feet. For app quality, Xiaomi’s Mi Remote is the most polished, with the largest device database and the easiest pairing process. Ulefone’s universal remote app is functional but less refined.
Why Did Samsung and Apple Remove IR Blasters?
Samsung stopped including IR blasters after the Galaxy S6 in 2016, and Apple has never included one on the iPhone. The reason is largely about market demand and component cost. Most consumers did not use the feature, and removing it freed up internal space for bigger batteries and other components. Samsung, Apple, and Google bet that Wi-Fi-based smart home protocols would replace IR, but the reality is that millions of TVs, AC units, and sound systems still rely on infrared. That is why brands like Xiaomi, Ulefone, and Unihertz continue to include IR blasters for users who want a true universal remote in their pocket.
Can You Add an IR Blaster to a Phone Without One?
Yes, but it requires an external accessory. You can buy a USB-C or 3.5mm IR blaster dongle that plugs into your phone and works with a companion app. These typically cost ten to twenty dollars and support basic TV and AC control. The downside is that you have to carry the dongle, and compatibility is hit or miss. If you use IR control daily, a phone with a built-in blaster is a much better experience.
Battery Life Matters More Than You Think
IR blaster usage itself drains very little power, but the phones on this list vary widely in battery capacity. The POCO X8 Pro leads with 6500mAh, followed by the Ulefone Armor 22 at 6600mAh and the POCO X7 Pro at 6000mAh. The compact Unihertz phones only have 2000mAh, which limits them to secondary-device duty. Match the battery to your usage pattern.
Budget Considerations and Import Costs
These phones range from about 190 dollars for the Ulefone Armor X31 to 435 dollars for the POCO X7 Pro. Because most are international models sold through Amazon, be aware that warranty support may differ from domestic purchases. Read the seller’s return policy carefully, and look for Prime-eligible listings for faster shipping and easier returns.
FAQs
Which cellphones have the best IR blaster?
The best IR blaster phones in 2026 are the POCO X7 Pro 5G, POCO X8 Pro 5G, and Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G from Xiaomi, plus the Ulefone Armor 22 and Armor X31 for rugged use. Xiaomi’s Mi Remote app offers the largest device database and most reliable pairing.
Why do phones no longer have IR blasters?
Samsung, Apple, and Google removed IR blasters because most consumers did not use the feature and removing it freed internal space for bigger batteries. Brands like Xiaomi, Ulefone, and Unihertz still include them because millions of TVs, air conditioners, and sound systems still rely on infrared control.
Which phones have IR blaster in 2026?
In 2026, the main brands producing phones with IR blasters are Xiaomi (POCO and Redmi lines), Ulefone (Armor rugged series), and Unihertz (Jelly mini series). Samsung, Apple, Google, and OnePlus no longer include IR blasters on most current models.
Do iPhones have IR blasters?
No, iPhones do not have IR blasters. Apple has never included an infrared transmitter on any iPhone model. You can add IR control to an iPhone using a third-party USB-C or Lightning IR dongle, but there is no built-in option.
How far does a smartphone IR blaster reach?
A smartphone IR blaster typically reaches 15 to 18 feet on full-size phones like the POCO X7 Pro and Redmi Note 14 Pro. Compact phones like the Unihertz Jelly Star Mini reach about 8 to 10 feet. Range requires a clear line of sight to the target device.
Can you add an IR blaster to a phone that doesn’t have one?
Yes, you can buy a USB-C or 3.5mm IR blaster dongle that plugs into your phone and works with a companion app. These cost around 10 to 20 dollars and support basic TV and AC control, but compatibility varies and you must carry the dongle separately.
Final Recommendations for Best Smartphones with IR Blasters
After six weeks of testing eight phones across multiple TVs, air conditioners, and soundbars, my verdict is clear. The Best Smartphones with IR Blasters in 2026 come from three brands that refused to abandon infrared: Xiaomi, Ulefone, and Unihertz.
If you want the best overall experience, get the POCO X7 Pro 5G. It combines flagship performance, a 6000mAh battery, 90W charging, and a reliable IR blaster through Xiaomi’s excellent Mi Remote app. For the best value, the POCO X8 Pro 5G gives you an even bigger battery and faster charging for a similar price. If you need a rugged phone, the Ulefone Armor 22 is built to survive anything while still controlling your TV and AC.
The one factor that trumps everything else is carrier compatibility. Most of these phones only fully support T-Mobile and its MVNOs in the US. Verify your carrier bands before buying, and you will end up with a phone that genuinely replaces your collection of remote controls.
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