An IR blaster on an LG TV is not a feature built into the TV itself; it is an infrared transmitter built into a phone or external accessory that sends infrared signals to control the TV. To use an ir blaster LG TV, you need a phone or device with IR hardware and a compatible remote app that you point directly at the TV.
What is an IR blaster on an LG TV?
An IR blaster is an infrared transmitter built into a phone or accessory that acts like a traditional remote control. It works only when the phone or device has IR hardware and is aimed directly at the TV. For LG TVs, the commonly documented setup is not a special LG TV menu; it is usually a phone app or IR-capable remote pointed at the TV, and the app must support LG or the TV model explicitly.
How does an IR blaster work with LG TVs?
LG TV control through IR blaster apps is documented as standard infrared remote control. The app-side instruction is to open the remote app, point the phone’s IR blaster directly at the TV, and use the remote controls. This requires line of sight to the TV’s IR receiver, with a typical working range of about 3-15 ft / 1-5 m in one app listing. One app listing says this works for “LG TV models manufactured from ~2005 until present day,” but that is an app-store claim, not an LG support statement. IR blaster can transmit signals through walls and other obstacles, enabling control of devices in other rooms. LG TVs with IR blasters often come with learning functions that allow teaching the TV remote commands from devices not in the pre-programmed database.
Which phones have an IR blaster for LG TV control?
Android devices with built-in IR blasters are explicitly listed in one Google Play listing, including Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei, and Oppo phones. Another Android app listing says supported devices with IR blaster run Android KitKat and newer, and gives examples such as Galaxy S4/S5/S6, Note 3/4, HTC One M7/M8/M9, LG G3 Stylus/G5, and Xiaomi Redmi Mi/Note series. The app-store pages found do not provide an Apple or iPhone model that includes a built-in IR blaster.
Benefits of using an IR blaster with your LG TV
An IR blaster can control LG TVs without Wi‑Fi or Bluetooth if the phone has IR hardware. It can also serve as a replacement for a lost or damaged remote. For example, if you want to enjoy wireless audio for your TV, you can use an IR blaster phone app to control the TV while connecting a separate audio system, all without needing the original remote. IR blaster can be used to control other devices like cable boxes, DVD players, sound systems, and gaming consoles. IR blaster eliminates the need for multiple remote controls. IR blaster improves accessibility for individuals with limited mobility or disabilities. IR blaster is a cost-effective solution compared to purchasing separate universal remotes or upgrading to a smart TV. IR blaster can be connected to a smart home hub or used with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control and automation routines.
Limitations of IR blasters on LG TVs
IR blaster control requires line of sight and does not work through walls or furniture. If the phone does not have IR hardware, the feature is not available. Limited range of up to 30 feet for IR blaster signal. Interference from other IR devices like air conditioners, fluorescent lights, or other remote-controlled devices can disrupt communication. Not all LG TVs are compatible with an IR blaster; need to check if specific LG TV model supports this feature. Setup and configuration can be complex, involving programming IR blaster with appropriate codes or using dedicated apps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an IR blaster with any LG TV?
IR blaster control works with any LG TV that has a standard IR receiver, which includes most models. However, there is no official LG documentation confirming compatibility by specific TV series, so results depend on the app and phone hardware.
Do I need to enable anything in my LG TV settings?
No. The setup is entirely app-based on the phone side.
Can I use an iPhone as an IR blaster for my LG TV?
No documented iPhone model includes a built-in IR blaster.
What if my phone does not have an IR blaster?
You would need a phone with a built-in IR blaster or an external IR accessory to control the TV this way.
Do all LG TVs have an IR blaster?
Related reading: How To Find Device Connector On Lg Tv.
