The Samsung Galaxy J7 series has been a popular choice among smartphone enthusiasts, offering a range of features and specifications that cater to different needs and budgets. One of the most frequently asked questions about the Galaxy J7 is whether it comes equipped with an IR blaster. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of IR blasters, explore their functionality, and ultimately answer the question: does the Samsung Galaxy J7 have an IR blaster?
What is an IR Blaster?
Before we dive into the specifics of the Galaxy J7, it’s essential to understand what an IR blaster is and its purpose. An IR blaster, also known as an infrared blaster, is a feature that allows your smartphone to control other electronic devices that use infrared signals for remote control. This includes TVs, air conditioners, projectors, and even some home appliances.
IR blasters work by transmitting infrared signals to these devices, mimicking the functionality of a traditional remote control. This feature is particularly useful for those who want to consolidate their remote controls into a single device, making it easier to manage their entertainment system or home appliances.
The Rise of IR Blasters in Smartphones
In the past, IR blasters were a rarity in smartphones, reserved only for high-end devices or specialized models designed for specific markets. However, with the increasing popularity of smart home devices and the IoT (Internet of Things), IR blasters have become more mainstream.
Several smartphone manufacturers, including Samsung, have started incorporating IR blasters into their mid-range and budget-friendly devices. This shift is driven by the growing demand for convenient and centralized control systems.
Samsung Galaxy J7 Series: A Brief Overview
The Samsung Galaxy J7 series was first introduced in 2015, offering a range of mid-range devices that cater to different regions and markets. Over the years, the series has undergone significant updates, with each new iteration introducing improvements in terms of design, performance, and features.
The Galaxy J7 series is known for its affordability, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. With various models to choose from, such as the Galaxy J7 (2015), Galaxy J7 (2016), Galaxy J7 Prime, Galaxy J7 Pro, and Galaxy J7 Max, among others, it’s essential to understand which models come with an IR blaster.
Does Samsung Galaxy J7 Have IR Blaster?
Now, let’s get to the crux of the matter: does the Samsung Galaxy J7 have an IR blaster? The answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no.
Galaxy J7 (2015) and Galaxy J7 (2016)
The original Galaxy J7 (2015) and the Galaxy J7 (2016) do not come with an IR blaster. These devices were designed to offer a compact and affordable smartphone experience, focusing on essential features like display, performance, and camera capabilities.
Galaxy J7 Prime, Galaxy J7 Pro, and Galaxy J7 Max
The Galaxy J7 Prime, Galaxy J7 Pro, and Galaxy J7 Max, on the other hand, are more feature-rich devices that target a slightly higher segment of the market. And, you guessed it, these devices do come equipped with an IR blaster!
The IR blaster on these devices is usually located on the top edge, next to the headset jack. It’s a cleverly designed feature that allows you to control your TV, AC, or other compatible devices using your smartphone.
How to Use the IR Blaster on Galaxy J7 Prime, Pro, and Max
Using the IR blaster on your Galaxy J7 Prime, Pro, or Max is relatively straightforward:
- Go to the Settings app on your device
- Scroll down and select “Connections”
- Tap on “More connection settings”
- Select “Remote control” or “IR remote”
- Choose the device you want to control from the list of available options
- Follow the on-screen instructions to pair your device with the IR blaster
Benefits of Having an IR Blaster on Galaxy J7
Having an IR blaster on your Galaxy J7 can be incredibly convenient, especially in certain situations:
- Consolidated control: With an IR blaster, you can control multiple devices using your smartphone, reducing clutter and making it easier to manage your entertainment system or home appliances.
- Universal remote: The IR blaster can be used as a universal remote control, allowing you to control devices from different manufacturers using a single interface.
- Increased functionality: An IR blaster can open up new possibilities for automation and control, making your life easier and more convenient.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy J7 series offers a mix of devices with and without IR blasters. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with an IR blaster, the Galaxy J7 Prime, Galaxy J7 Pro, or Galaxy J7 Max might be the perfect choice for you.
However, if you’re considering the original Galaxy J7 (2015) or Galaxy J7 (2016), you might need to look elsewhere for a device with an IR blaster.
Ultimately, the presence or absence of an IR blaster should be just one of the factors to consider when choosing the right smartphone for your needs.
Q: What is an IR Blaster and how does it work?
An IR Blaster is a small device that can emit infrared signals to control other devices such as TVs, air conditioners, and other appliances. It works by sending commands to these devices using infrared light, allowing users to control them remotely. In the context of smartphones, an IR Blaster is typically a small component built into the phone’s hardware that enables users to control other devices using their phone.
For example, if a phone has an IR Blaster, users can use their phone to change the channel on their TV, adjust the temperature on their air conditioner, or even control other smart devices in their home. This can be a convenient feature for those who want to have a single remote control for all their devices.
Q: Does the Samsung Galaxy J7 have an IR Blaster?
Unfortunately, the Samsung Galaxy J7 does not have an IR Blaster. This means that users cannot use their Galaxy J7 to control other devices such as TVs, air conditioners, or other appliances using infrared signals. This may be a drawback for some users who were hoping to use their phone as a universal remote control.
Despite not having an IR Blaster, the Galaxy J7 still has many other features that make it a popular choice among smartphone users. Its large display, long battery life, and affordable price point make it an attractive option for those looking for a budget-friendly smartphone.
Q: Can I still control my devices using my Galaxy J7?
While the Galaxy J7 does not have an IR Blaster, there are still some workarounds that allow users to control their devices using their phone. For example, some devices such as smart TVs and air conditioners have their own apps that can be downloaded onto the Galaxy J7. These apps allow users to control their devices remotely using their phone’s Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
Another option is to use third-party universal remote control apps that can mimic the functions of an IR Blaster. These apps can send commands to devices using other communication protocols such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. However, the compatibility of these apps may vary depending on the device being controlled, and the user’s experience may not be as seamless as using a built-in IR Blaster.
Q: Are there any other Samsung phones that have an IR Blaster?
Yes, there are several Samsung phones that have an IR Blaster. For example, some high-end Samsung phones such as the Galaxy S and Galaxy Note series have an IR Blaster built-in. This allows users to control their devices using their phone’s infrared capabilities.
However, it’s worth noting that not all Samsung phones have an IR Blaster, and this feature is typically reserved for higher-end models. If having an IR Blaster is a must-have feature for you, you may want to consider upgrading to a higher-end Samsung phone or looking at other brands that offer this feature.
Q: Is the IR Blaster a necessary feature for most users?
The IR Blaster is a convenient feature, but it’s not a necessary feature for most users. Many devices nowadays can be controlled using apps or other methods that don’t require an IR Blaster. Additionally, the rise of smart devices and voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant have made it easier for users to control their devices without the need for an IR Blaster.
That being said, for some users who have a lot of devices that rely on infrared signals, an IR Blaster can be a very useful feature. For example, those who have a lot of older devices that don’t have app support or smart capabilities may find an IR Blaster to be a convenient way to control their devices using their phone.
Q: Can I install an IR Blaster on my Galaxy J7?
Unfortunately, it’s not possible to install an IR Blaster on the Galaxy J7 as it is a hardware component that is built into the phone. The Galaxy J7’s hardware is fixed and cannot be modified to add an IR Blaster.
While there may be some third-party adapters or accessories that claim to add IR Blaster functionality to the Galaxy J7, these are not official solutions and may not work reliably. If having an IR Blaster is a must-have feature for you, it’s best to consider purchasing a phone that has this feature built-in.
Q: Is the lack of IR Blaster a deal-breaker for the Galaxy J7?
The lack of IR Blaster is a drawback for some users, but it’s not a deal-breaker for the Galaxy J7. The phone has many other features that make it a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly smartphone. The Galaxy J7’s large display, long battery life, and affordable price point make it an attractive option for many users.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Galaxy J7 or any other phone depends on your individual needs and priorities. If having an IR Blaster is a must-have feature for you, then the Galaxy J7 may not be the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable smartphone with great overall performance, the Galaxy J7 is still a great option to consider.