Amazon has alerted certain users of Fire TV and Echo devices that one of its smart products, the Fire TV Blaster, will soon be discontinued. The device, which provided hands-free voice controls for home theaters when paired with a Fire TV Stick or smart speaker, is set to cease functioning “in the coming weeks.”

Initially designed to enable users to control soundbars, adjust volume, and change channels on set-top boxes using Alexa voice commands, the Fire TV Blaster faced challenges during its launch a year ago, leading to its removal from sale. Amazon subsequently introduced the more user-friendly Fire TV Cube with similar functionalities.

Amazon stated that the Fire TV Blaster served its purpose during a transitional phase in the smart home industry but became obsolete with the advancement of new technologies and the evolution of other Fire TV products. Owners of the Fire TV Blaster in the US are being offered the opportunity to exchange it for a discounted Fire TV Cube, while UK owners will receive a £34.99 gift card automatically deposited into their accounts.

Users who purchased the Fire TV Blaster received emails notifying them of the impending discontinuation of support and functionality. Additionally, Amazon is providing discounts on the Fire TV Cube and gift cards, and offering free recycling of old Fire TV Blasters. To recycle the device, users simply need to print a shipping label and return it.