Amazon has announced that its Fire TV Blaster device will cease to function in the coming weeks, rendering it useless for customers who purchased it. The device, which was discontinued in 2019, allowed users to add hands-free voice control to older televisions, sound bars, and cable boxes via infrared signals using Alexa.
In an email sent to customers, Amazon stated: 'In the coming weeks, support for Fire TV Blaster will be discontinued, and the device will stop working.' To compensate, affected users will receive a £43 voucher towards the purchase of the latest Fire TV Cube, which offers a built-in IR blaster and full hands-free Alexa functionality. Alternatively, customers can opt for a 50% discount on a new Fire TV streaming media player or recycle the old device through the Amazon Recycling Programme.
Separately, data obtained under the Freedom of Information Act revealed that Merseyside Police made two arrests in 2024 and two in 2025 related to the use or distribution of illegally altered devices, such as Amazon Firesticks, used to access premium channels. No arrests were made in 2023. The Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) warned that suppliers of modified Fire Sticks could face fines up to £50,000, while consumers of illegal streams might face fines of thousands of pounds.
The Sports Industry Report 2026 found that 58% of fans surveyed believe it is becoming socially acceptable to use pirate streaming channels to watch live sports. National Trading Standards, City of London Police, and FACT have announced a crackdown on such devices in Merseyside and 17 other areas.
