Many Android phones have a hidden function that allows them to be converted into universal remote controls, ideal for controlling everything from your television to your air conditioning, and even your garage door. This feature is present in several models and works thanks to a small component called an infrared emitter or IR blaster.

Although not all smartphones include it, brands such as Xiaomi, POCO, Huawei, Vivo, and OnePlus continue to rely on this technology, especially in their mid-range devices. If you have one of these models, you can probably take advantage of this feature to simplify the control of your electronic devices.

What is an infrared emitter and what is it used for?

The infrared emitter allows the phone to send signals similar to those of a traditional remote control. It is the same type of signal that remote controls use to change the channel on your television or adjust the temperature on your air conditioning. The big advantage is that it does not require a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection, which makes it very easy to use.

This component is usually located at the top of the phone. For it to work correctly, it is necessary to point it directly at the device you want to control, without obstacles in between. The optimal distance is usually between 5 and 15 meters, depending on the power of the transmitter and the sensitivity of the device's receiver.

With this system, you can turn equipment on and off, change channels, raise or lower the volume, regulate the temperature, or open your garage door, all from a single app on your phone.

How to set up your phone as a remote control

Using this feature is easier than it seems. Here are the basic steps:

Some apps allow you to create shortcuts on the home screen or even integrate with virtual assistants, making the experience even more convenient.

Advantages and uses you may not have known about

If your phone doesn't have this feature built-in,There are infrared adapters that connect to the USB-C port. They're small, inexpensive, and allow you to turn virtually any Android into a universal remote.

The infrared emitter is a simple technology, but it's still very useful and versatile. If your phone has this feature, it's worth taking advantage of. With just an app and a quick setup, you can control multiple devices without any hassle. A hidden feature that will make your life easier.