Television remote controls facilitate user interaction by transmitting commands to the television. Two common technologies employed for this purpose are infrared (IR) and Bluetooth. The primary distinction lies in their method of communication. IR remotes utilize light waves within the infrared spectrum to transmit signals. These signals require a direct, unobstructed line of sight between the remote and the television’s IR receiver. In contrast, Bluetooth remotes use radio frequencies for communication, eliminating the necessity for a direct line of sight.
The adoption of remote control technology revolutionized television viewing by providing convenience and control over channel selection, volume adjustment, and power functions from a distance. IR technology, being relatively inexpensive and simple to implement, dominated the market for many years. Bluetooth, while offering greater flexibility in terms of range and obstruction tolerance, initially faced higher implementation costs and power consumption considerations. However, advancements in Bluetooth technology have reduced these drawbacks, making it a viable alternative.