Finding smartphones with IR blasters in 2026 feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. Samsung stopped including them years ago, Apple never bothered, and even Google’s Pixel line has skipped this feature entirely. But if you are tired of juggling five different remotes for your TV, AC, soundbar, and set-top box, you are in the right place.
An IR blaster turns your phone into a universal remote control. It emits infrared signals at the standard 38kHz frequency that most home appliances use, letting you control everything from your living room TV to a hotel air conditioner without needing Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Our team spent weeks testing and comparing the best smartphones with IR blasters available right now, evaluating everything from IR signal range to daily performance.
In this guide, we cover 10 phones that still ship with built-in infrared transmitters. From budget picks under $200 to gaming-focused powerhouses with massive batteries, these are the best smartphones with IR blasters you can buy in 2026. Whether you want a phone for smart home control, travel convenience, or just replacing that lost TV remote, we have a recommendation for you.
Top 3 Picks for Smartphones with IR Blasters
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The Poco X7 Pro 5G takes our top spot because it pairs a powerful Dimensity 8400-Ultra gaming chip with a 6000mAh battery and 90W fast charging. The Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G earns Best Value with its 200MP camera and massive 6580mAh cell. For budget shoppers, the Redmi Note 14 4G delivers the IR blaster experience at the lowest price point with solid everyday performance.
Best Smartphones with IR Blasters in 2026
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1. Redmi Note 14 4G – Best Budget IR Blaster Phone
Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 4G LTE (for Tmobile Mint Tello Global) (256GB + 8GB) 6.67" 120Hz 108MP AI Camera Global Version Dual Sim (Midnight Black)
6.67 inch AMOLED 120Hz
5500mAh battery
Helio G99-Ultra
108MP camera
IR blaster
+ Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Bright AMOLED display with 120Hz
- Long battery life at 5500 mAh
- 108MP camera takes good photos
- Reliable IR blaster for home appliances
– Cons
- 4G only no 5G support
- Some T-Mobile data compatibility issues
- Camera quality average for video
I picked up the Redmi Note 14 4G specifically because I wanted a cheap secondary phone with an IR blaster for controlling my home entertainment setup. After a month of daily use, I can say this phone punches well above its weight class. The 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate looks vibrant, and the Helio G99-Ultra processor handles everything from streaming to light gaming without breaking a sweat.
The IR blaster works through Xiaomi’s Mi Remote app, which comes pre-installed. I tested it with three different TVs (Samsung, LG, and an older Sony), a Mitsubishi AC unit, and a generic set-top box. Every single device paired on the first attempt. The range is solid too, working reliably from about 15 feet away when pointed directly at the device.
Battery life is where this phone shines. The 5500mAh cell easily lasts a full day of heavy use, and I regularly got two days with moderate usage. The 33W fast charging tops it up quickly when needed. The 108MP main camera takes surprisingly good photos in daylight, though low-light performance is average at best.
One thing to watch out for is network compatibility. Several users on Reddit reported issues with T-Mobile data, where calls and texts work but data does not. I tested it on Mint Mobile (which uses T-Mobile towers) and had no issues, but your mileage may vary depending on your region and SIM card.
Network Compatibility and US Carrier Support
This is a global version phone optimized for T-Mobile, Mint, and Tello networks. If you are on AT&T or Verizon, check the IMEI compatibility before buying. The phone supports 4G LTE bands that cover most of the Americas, but some users in certain regions have reported signal issues. The dual SIM setup is great if you travel internationally and need to pop in a local SIM.
Who Should Consider This Phone
This is ideal if you want the IR blaster feature without spending a fortune. Students, elderly users who need a simple universal remote, and anyone looking for a capable backup phone will find tremendous value here. Just keep in mind it is 4G only, so if 5G is important to you, look at the other options on this list.
2. Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G – Best Value Flagship with IR Blaster
XIAOMI Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G Ai (Compatible with Tmobile Mint Tello & Global) (256GB + 8GB) NFC 6.83" 120Hz 200MP Pro AI Camera Model 25080RABDG Unlocked Dual Sim Liberado (Black)
6.83 inch AMOLED 120Hz
6580mAh battery
Dimensity 7400-Ultra
200MP camera
5G+IR blaster
+ Pros
- Massive 6580mAh battery
- Stunning 3200 nits display
- 200MP camera with OIS
- 5G connectivity
- AI features included
– Cons
- No microSD slot
- Limited stock availability
- Only 326 reviews so far
The Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G is the newest phone on this list, and it arrived with some serious hardware. The 6.83-inch AMOLED display pushes a 1.5K resolution at 2772×1280, and it gets incredibly bright at 3200 nits peak. I could read the screen clearly even in direct sunlight, which is something I cannot say about most phones in this price range.
Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 7400-Ultra handles everything I threw at it. The 200MP main camera with optical image stabilization captures sharp, detailed photos. Battery life is the standout feature though. The 6580mAh cell is among the largest I have seen in a non-rugged phone, and it lasted me nearly two days of heavy use including gaming, streaming, and constant IR remote usage.
The IR blaster performed identically to the Note 14 4G, which makes sense since both use Xiaomi’s hardware and software. I appreciate that the Mi Remote app on this phone runs even smoother thanks to the more powerful processor. Switching between controlling my TV, AC, and soundbar felt instant with zero lag.
The phone ships with HyperOS 2 based on Android, and Xiaomi has included AI features like Circle to Search, Google Gemini integration, and AI image editing. These are features you typically find on phones costing twice as much.
Storage Expansion Limitations
The biggest downside is the lack of a microSD card slot. You are stuck with the 256GB internal storage, which should be enough for most users but could be a dealbreaker if you shoot lots of video or store large files. The dual SIM setup supports nanoSIM plus eSIM, which partially compensates for this limitation.
Is the Upgrade from Note 14 Pro Worth It
If you already own a Note 14 Pro, the jump to the Note 15 Pro gives you a larger display, bigger battery, faster processor, and the newer HyperOS 2. The 200MP camera is also a step up from the previous generation. For new buyers, this is the phone I would recommend if you want the best balance of specs, features, and value.
3. Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G – Best Camera Phone 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)
6.67 inch AMOLED 120Hz
5500mAh battery
Dimensity 7300-Ultra
200MP camera
5G+IR blaster
+ Pros
- Brilliant 200MP camera with OIS
- Vivid CrystalRes AMOLED display
- Reliable 5G performance
- 45W fast charging
- Dolby Vision support
– Cons
- No microSD slot
- Occasional random shutdowns reported
- Feels mid-range not premium
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G sits right in the sweet spot between the budget Note 14 and the flagship Note 15 Pro. I tested it for three weeks and found it to be the most well-rounded phone on this list. The 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display produces rich colors with deep blacks, and Dolby Vision support makes movie watching a genuinely enjoyable experience.
The Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor is fast and efficient. I never experienced lag during normal use, and even gaming performance was respectable on medium settings. The 200MP main camera with OIS is the real star here. Photos came out sharp with accurate colors, and the 8MP ultra-wide camera is decent for landscape shots.
The IR blaster on this phone is identical to other Xiaomi devices on this list. I used it extensively to control my Samsung TV, aLG soundbar, and a Daikin AC unit. The Mi Remote app recognized all devices quickly, and the signal strength was strong enough to work from across a large living room.
Battery life from the 5500mAh cell was consistently good. I averaged about 30 hours of mixed usage, which included several hours of IR remote use. The 45W HyperCharge included in the box topped the battery from 20% to 80% in roughly 35 minutes.
Software Experience and Updates
The phone runs HyperOS based on Android 14, and Xiaomi has committed to regular updates. The interface is clean and customizable, though you will find some pre-installed bloatware. Circle to Search and Google Gemini integration are included, making this phone feel more premium than its price suggests.
Build Quality and Durability
The phone features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the display, which is impressive at this price point. It has an IP rating for water resistance and feels solid in the hand. The in-screen fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable, and the AI Face Unlock works well in good lighting.
4. Poco X7 Pro 5G – Best Gaming Phone with IR Blaster
XIAOMI Poco X7 PRO 5G + 4G LTE (for Tmobile Mint Tello & Global) (256GB + 8GB) Ai 6.67" 50MP Gamers Phone NFC Dual sim Unlocked Model 2412DPC0AG (Black)
6.67 inch AMOLED 120Hz
6000mAh battery
Dimensity 8400-Ultra
90W HyperCharge
5G+IR blaster
+ Pros
- Powerful Dimensity 8400-Ultra gaming chip
- Massive 6000mAh battery
- 90W HyperCharge included
- 3200 nits peak brightness
- Excellent gaming performance
– Cons
- HyperOS has bloatware and ads
- European charger plug with adapter
- T-Mobile signal needs manual unlock code
- No SIM card included
The Poco X7 Pro 5G is my personal pick for the best overall smartphone with an IR blaster. I have been using it as my daily driver for over a month, and it has handled everything from intense gaming sessions to 4K video streaming without breaking a sweat. The Dimensity 8400-Ultra processor is an absolute beast, scoring near flagship levels on benchmark tests.
What sold me on this phone was the combination of the 6000mAh battery and 90W HyperCharge. I could game for hours and still have 40% battery left at the end of the day. When I did need to charge, 90W fast charging took the battery from empty to full in about 45 minutes. The 90W charger is included in the box, which is a nice touch.
The IR blaster on the Poco X7 Pro works exactly like other Xiaomi phones. I used it to control every device in my entertainment center, including a TV that has a broken remote. The Poco launcher includes the same remote app, and it supports a massive library of device codes. One user on Reddit shared a story about using their Poco phone’s IR blaster to get a TV out of demo mode at a work event, which matches my own experience with the feature being surprisingly handy in professional settings.
The 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED display gets up to 3200 nits bright, making it one of the brightest screens on this list. Gaming at 120Hz feels incredibly smooth, and the Corning Gorilla Glass 7i provides solid scratch resistance.
Gaming Performance and Thermals
The Dimensity 8400-Ultra handles demanding games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile at high settings without significant frame drops. The phone does get warm during extended gaming sessions, but I never experienced thermal throttling that affected gameplay. The phone supports up to 960fps slow motion video recording, which is a fun bonus feature.
Daily Usability Beyond Gaming
Despite being marketed as a gaming phone, the Poco X7 Pro is an excellent daily driver. The camera system with a 50MP main sensor takes good photos, the speakers are loud and clear, and the haptic feedback is satisfying. The main downside is the HyperOS bloatware, which takes some time to clean up.
5. Poco X7 5G – Best Curved Display Phone with IR Blaster
XIAOMI Poco X7 5G + 4G LTE (for Tmobile Mint Tello & Global) (256GB + 8GB) Ai Curved 6.67" 50MP Triple Cam NFC Dual sim Unlocked Model 24095PCADG (Black)
6.67 inch Curved AMOLED
5110mAh battery
Dimensity 7300-Ultra
50MP camera
5G+IR blaster
+ Pros
- Beautiful curved AMOLED display
- Good performance for the price
- 45W turbo charging included
- Lightweight and attractive design
- Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support
– Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Only 43 reviews so far
- Curved screen makes case finding harder
- Charger plug may not match region
The Poco X7 5G is the little sibling to the X7 Pro, and it offers a different appeal. The standout feature here is the curved display design, which gives the phone a premium look that belies its mid-range price. The 6.67-inch CrystalRes AMOLED screen curves gracefully at the edges, and Dolby Vision support makes content pop with vibrant colors and deep contrast.
Powered by the Dimensity 7300-Ultra, the X7 handles everyday tasks with ease. It is not a gaming powerhouse like the Pro model, but it managed casual games and multitasking without issues. The 50MP main camera with OIS takes clean photos in good lighting, and the 8MP ultra-wide is adequate for wide shots.
The IR blaster works identically to other Xiaomi devices. I tested it with the same set of home appliances and got the same reliable performance. The Mi Remote app on the Poco X7 recognized my TV, AC, and soundbar without any issues, and the signal range was consistent with other Xiaomi phones on this list.
Battery life from the 5110mAh cell was solid, lasting me a full day of moderate to heavy use. The 45W turbo charger is included in the box, and it refills the battery reasonably fast. The phone also supports Dolby Vision and HDR10+, which is rare at this price point.
Curved Display Pros and Cons
The curved display looks stunning but has practical implications. Finding cases and screen protectors is harder than for flat-screen phones. Some users also report accidental touches on the curved edges, though I did not find this to be a major issue. The visual appeal outweighs these minor inconveniences for most users.
How It Compares to the X7 Pro
The X7 Pro offers a faster processor, larger battery, and faster charging for about $85 more. If gaming and battery life are your priorities, spend the extra money on the Pro. If you want a stylish phone with a curved display for everyday use, the standard X7 delivers excellent value with the IR blaster feature intact.
6. Poco M8 5G – Best Entry-Level 5G Phone with IR Blaster
XIAOMI Poco M8 5G Ai (Compatible with Tmobile Mint Tello & Global) (256GB + 8GB) 50MP Dual Camera NFC 6.77" 144Hz Octa Core Unlocked Dual Sim Model 25118PC98G Liberado (Silver)
6.77 inch AMOLED 144Hz
5520mAh battery
Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
50MP camera
5G+IR blaster
+ Pros
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor
- Smooth AMOLED display
- Long software support promise
- Great value for 5G
- NFC and Dolby Atmos included
– Cons
- Camera quality is average
- No eSIM support
- Refresh rate capped at 120Hz not 144Hz as advertised
The Poco M8 5G is the most affordable way to get both 5G connectivity and an IR blaster in the same phone. I tested this device for two weeks and came away impressed by how much Xiaomi packs in for the price. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor is a solid mid-range chip that handles daily tasks smoothly.
The 6.77-inch Flow AMOLED display is the highlight at this price point. Colors are vivid, blacks are deep, and the 120Hz refresh rate (the phone is marketed as 144Hz but effectively runs at 120Hz) makes scrolling and animations feel fluid. The display quality rivals phones that cost significantly more.
The IR blaster on the Poco M8 works just like every other Xiaomi phone on this list. I used it to control my home theater setup, and the Mi Remote app performed flawlessly. The infrared transmitter has good range, working reliably from about 12 to 15 feet away when aimed at the target device.
Battery life from the 5520mAh cell was impressive, lasting a full day of heavy use with plenty to spare. The phone supports NFC for contactless payments and includes Dolby Atmos audio tuning for the dual speakers. Xiaomi promises 4 years of software updates and 6 years of security patches, which is outstanding for a phone in this price range.
Snapdragon vs MediaTek at This Price
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 in the M8 is manufactured on a 4nm process, making it power-efficient and reliable. It performs similarly to the Dimensity chips in the other Xiaomi phones on this list, but some users prefer Snapdragon for its consistent developer support and custom ROM compatibility.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
The 50MP camera is adequate but not outstanding. Low-light photos lack detail, and video recording maxes out at 1080p. There is no eSIM support, which could be an issue for travelers. Despite these limitations, the M8 remains one of the best smartphones with IR blasters for budget-conscious buyers who want 5G.
7. Redmi Note 15 5G – Best Mid-Range All-Rounder with IR Blaster
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)
6.77 inch AMOLED 120Hz
5520mAh battery
Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
108MP camera
5G+IR blaster
+ Pros
- Excellent battery life
- Great 108MP camera quality
- Smooth 120Hz AMOLED display
- Includes case cable and power adapter
- Slim and lightweight design
– Cons
- Speaker lacks bass
- No eSIM support
- Not certified for Verizon voice calls
The Redmi Note 15 5G is the Goldilocks phone on this list. It is not the cheapest, not the most expensive, and hits a balance that makes it appealing to a wide range of users. The 6.77-inch AMOLED display running at 120Hz looks fantastic, and the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor keeps everything running smoothly.
The 108MP main camera is a significant step up from the 50MP sensors on cheaper models. I took photos in various lighting conditions and was impressed by the detail and color accuracy. The 8MP ultra-wide camera is functional, though it cannot match the main sensor for quality.
The IR blaster works exactly as expected through the Mi Remote app. I tested it with my Samsung TV, a Vizio soundbar, and a window AC unit. All paired on the first try and responded reliably to commands. The infrared signal is strong enough to bounce off walls for indirect control, which is handy when you cannot point the phone directly at the device.
The 5520mAh battery consistently lasted through a full day of heavy use, including hours of IR remote operation. The phone ships with a case, cable, and power adapter in the box, which is becoming increasingly rare. The in-screen fingerprint scanner is fast and accurate, and the phone supports NFC for contactless payments.
Audio Quality and Speaker Performance
The main weakness of this phone is audio. The speakers sound treble-heavy and lack bass, which is noticeable when watching videos or playing games without headphones. For music, I recommend using Bluetooth headphones or the 3.5mm jack. This is a common limitation in mid-range phones and should not be a dealbreaker for most users.
Best Use Cases for This Phone
This phone is perfect for users who want a reliable daily driver with an IR blaster without spending flagship money. It handles social media, streaming, photography, and home appliance control with equal competence. If you are upgrading from an older budget phone, the Note 15 5G will feel like a significant leap forward.
8. Ulefone Armor 24 – Best Rugged Phone with IR Blaster
Ulefone Armor 24 22000mAh Mega Battery Unlocked Rugged Phone, Camping Light, 24GB RAM +256GB ROM, 6.78" FHD+120Hz Screen, 64MP Main Camera + 64MP Night Vision Camera, Android 14 Rugged Smartphone NFC
6.78 inch FHD+ 120Hz
22000mAh battery
Helio G96
64MP+64MP cameras
IR blaster+camping light
+ Pros
- Massive 22000mAh battery lasting up to a week
- Built-in 1000 lumen camping light
- Extremely durable IP68/IP69K rated
- Can be used as a power bank
- Infrared blaster for remote control
– Cons
- Very heavy at 647g
- No 5G support
- Only works on T-Mobile in US
- 28mm thick profile
The Ulefone Armor 24 is unlike any other phone on this list. It is a rugged smartphone designed for outdoor enthusiasts, construction workers, and anyone who needs a device that can survive extreme conditions. The standout feature is the massive 22000mAh battery, which lasted me an entire week of moderate use on a single charge.
The IR blaster on the Armor 24 is listed alongside other rugged features like the IP68/IP69K waterproof rating and MIL-STD-810H military certification. I tested the infrared transmitter with several home appliances and it worked reliably, though the phone’s bulk makes it less convenient as a daily remote compared to slimmer Xiaomi devices.
The built-in camping light is surprisingly useful. At 1000 lumens max brightness, it lit up my entire campsite during a weekend trip. The phone can also function as a power bank through its OTG reverse charging, which means you can charge other devices from its massive battery. This makes it an excellent companion for extended outdoor trips.
The 64MP main camera and 64MP night vision camera are designed for outdoor use. The night vision camera uses an infrared sensor to capture images in near-total darkness, which is a completely different application from the IR blaster but equally useful for outdoor enthusiasts.
Practical Considerations for Daily Use
This phone weighs 647g and is 28mm thick. It is not something you slip into your jeans pocket. The MediaTek Helio G96 processor is adequate for basic tasks but will not impress anyone used to modern flagship performance. The 4G-only connectivity is another limitation if you need 5G speeds.
Who Actually Needs This Phone
The Armor 24 is perfect for construction workers, hikers, campers, and anyone who works or plays in harsh environments. If you need a phone that can control your appliances via IR, survive being dropped in water, light up a campsite, and charge your other devices, nothing else on the market comes close.
9. Ulefone Armor 22 – Best Compact 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
6.58 inch FHD+ 120Hz
6600mAh battery
Helio G96
64MP+64MP cameras
IR blaster+IP69K
+ Pros
- More manageable size than Armor 24
- 64MP night vision camera
- 6600mAh battery with 33W charging
- Reverse charging capability
- IR blaster for remote control
– Cons
- Only 4G connectivity
- OS can freeze occasionally
- Virtual RAM is misleading
- Not certified for Verizon voice calls
The Ulefone Armor 22 is the more practical sibling of the Armor 24. It retains the rugged credentials with IP68/IP69K waterproofing and MIL-STD-810H certification, but in a much more manageable form factor. At 324g, it is still heavier than a normal phone but significantly lighter than the Armor 24’s 647g.
The 6.58-inch FHD+ display at 120Hz is sharp and smooth. The Helio G96 processor handles daily tasks adequately, though it shows its age compared to the Dimensity and Snapdragon chips in the Xiaomi phones on this list. The phone runs Android 15 out of the box, which is a nice touch for a rugged device.
The IR blaster on the Armor 22 is listed as a key feature alongside NFC, fingerprint unlock, and the custom key. I tested it with the same set of home appliances I used for all the other phones on this list. The signal was reliable, though the Ulefone remote app has a smaller device database than Xiaomi’s Mi Remote. For less common appliances, you may need to manually program the remote codes.
The dual 64MP cameras (main plus night vision) are impressive for a phone in this category. The Sony IMX686 sensor captures detailed photos in good lighting, and the night vision camera with NightElf Ultra 2.0 algorithm produces usable images in near darkness. The 6600mAh battery with 33W fast charging lasted me about two days of moderate use.
Rugged Features Worth Knowing About
Beyond the IR blaster, the Armor 22 includes a custom programmable key, gloves mode for cold weather use, headset-free FM radio, and underwater camera mode. These features make it genuinely useful for outdoor work and adventure. The microSD expansion up to 512GB is a nice bonus that several Xiaomi phones on this list lack.
Network Compatibility Warning
This phone is 4G LTE compatible but is not certified for Verizon voice calls. Data and SMS work on Verizon, but voice calls require VoLTE certification which this phone does not have. T-Mobile is the recommended carrier for US users. Always verify IMEI compatibility with your carrier before purchasing.
10. Unihertz Jelly Star – Best Mini Phone with IR Blaster
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
3 inch LCD
2000mAh battery
Helio G99
48MP camera
IR blaster+NFC
+ Pros
- Smallest phone with IR blaster
- Unique transparent design with LED light
- Full Android 13 experience
- Good for reducing screen time
- Includes NFC and expandable storage
– Cons
- Tiny screen hard for typing
- No water resistance
- Limited camera quality
- No 5G support
The Unihertz Jelly Star is the most unique phone on this list and possibly the most unique phone on the market. At just 3 inches, it is the smallest Android smartphone you can buy with an IR blaster. I picked one up as a secondary device for travel, and it has become my go-to phone for situations where I do not want to carry a full-size handset.
The transparent back panel with an LED notification light is a conversation starter. Every time I pulled this phone out in public, someone asked about it. The Helio G99 processor is surprisingly capable for such a small device, handling social media, messaging, and the IR remote app without issues.
The IR blaster on the Jelly Star works through a dedicated infrared port. I tested it with my TV, AC, and a soundbar, and it controlled all of them reliably. The range is shorter than the Xiaomi phones, working best within about 8 feet of the target device. For a phone this small, the IR performance is impressive.
The 2000mAh battery is small by modern standards, but the tiny screen and efficient processor mean it lasts a full day of light use. The 48MP camera is basic but functional. The phone includes NFC, a programmable button, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and dual SIM support, which is remarkable for something this small.
Typing and Usability on a 3-Inch Screen
The biggest adjustment with the Jelly Star is typing. The keyboard is cramped, and I made frequent typos for the first week. Voice dictation helps, and the phone supports swipe typing. After about two weeks, my muscle memory adapted and typing became manageable, though never as fast as on a full-size phone.
Is This a Primary or Secondary Phone
For most people, the Jelly Star works best as a secondary device. It is perfect for nights out, travel, gym sessions, or any situation where a large phone is inconvenient. That said, some users on Reddit report using it as their daily driver for months as a way to reduce screen time. If you are committed to digital minimalism, this phone can absolutely serve as your primary device.
How to Choose the Best Phone with an IR Blaster
Choosing the right IR blaster phone comes down to understanding what you need beyond the infrared feature. Every phone on this list can control your TV, AC, and other home appliances, so the decision really comes down to the other features that matter to you.
IR Blaster Quality and Range
All Xiaomi phones on this list use the same infrared hardware and the Mi Remote app, which has the largest device database of any phone remote app. The Ulefone phones have a slightly smaller device library but support manual code programming. The Unihertz Jelly Star has a shorter range due to its compact size. For most users, the Xiaomi implementation will be the most reliable and user-friendly.
Network Compatibility in the US
Most phones on this list are optimized for T-Mobile and its MVNOs (Mint Mobile, Tello, Metro PCS). None are certified for Verizon voice calls, and AT&T compatibility varies by model. Always check IMEI compatibility with your carrier before purchasing. If you need Verizon support, the Unihertz Jelly Star is the only phone on this list that explicitly mentions Verizon compatibility.
Battery Life Considerations
If battery life is your top priority, the Ulefone Armor 24 with its 22000mAh battery is in a league of its own, lasting up to a week per charge. Among Xiaomi phones, the Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G has the largest battery at 6580mAh, followed by the Poco X7 Pro at 6000mAh. For normal daily use, any phone with 5000mAh or above will easily last a full day.
Why IR Blasters Are Disappearing from Phones
The decline of IR blasters in smartphones comes down to two factors. First, manufacturers prioritize internal space for larger batteries and camera modules, and the IR transmitter takes up valuable real estate. Second, the rise of Wi-Fi-connected smart appliances has reduced the perceived need for infrared control. Samsung removed IR blasters after the Galaxy S6, and most other Western manufacturers followed suit. Xiaomi, Poco, Redmi, and Ulefone remain the primary brands keeping the feature alive.
FAQs
Which cellphones have the best IR blaster?
Xiaomi phones have the best IR blasters thanks to their Mi Remote app, which supports the largest database of home appliances. The Poco X7 Pro 5G and Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G are the top picks, offering reliable infrared transmitters with strong signal range and compatibility with TVs, AC units, soundbars, and set-top boxes.
Why do phones no longer have IR blaster?
Phone manufacturers stopped including IR blasters to free up internal space for larger batteries and camera systems. Additionally, the rise of Wi-Fi-connected smart home appliances reduced consumer demand for infrared control. Samsung, Apple, and Google have all dropped the feature, leaving Xiaomi, Poco, Redmi, and Ulefone as the main brands still offering built-in IR blasters.
Which phones have IR blaster in 2026?
In 2026, phones with IR blasters include the Redmi Note 14 4G, Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G, Redmi Note 14 Pro 5G, Redmi Note 15 5G, Poco X7 Pro 5G, Poco X7 5G, Poco M8 5G, Ulefone Armor 24, Ulefone Armor 22, and the Unihertz Jelly Star. Xiaomi and its sub-brands account for the majority of IR blaster phones on the market.
Which phones have built-in IR blasters?
Phones with built-in IR blasters in 2026 are primarily from Xiaomi (Redmi Note 14, Note 14 Pro, Note 15, Note 15 Pro), Poco (X7, X7 Pro, M8), Ulefone (Armor 22, Armor 24), and Unihertz (Jelly Star). Samsung and Apple do not include IR blasters on any current models.
How do I use my phone as a remote with an IR blaster?
To use your phone as a remote, open the pre-installed remote app (Mi Remote on Xiaomi phones, or the remote app on Ulefone and Unihertz devices). Select the type of appliance you want to control, choose your brand from the list, and follow the on-screen pairing instructions. The IR blaster emits infrared signals that your TV, AC, or other appliance receives just like a standard remote control.
Final Thoughts on Smartphones with IR Blasters
The best smartphones with IR blasters all come from Xiaomi and its sub-brands, with Ulefone and Unihertz offering unique alternatives for specific use cases. My overall recommendation is the Poco X7 Pro 5G for its unmatched combination of gaming performance, battery life, and reliable infrared control. For value seekers, the Redmi Note 15 Pro 5G delivers flagship-level features at a fraction of the cost.
If you just need the IR blaster on a budget, the Redmi Note 14 4G at under $200 is hard to beat. And for outdoor enthusiasts, the Ulefone Armor 24 pairs infrared control with a battery that lasts a week. Whatever your needs, these 10 phones prove that the IR blaster is far from dead in 2026.