ZemiSmart Launches an IR Blaster and AC Controller, Both with Matter Support
Zemismart has unveiled two new infrared control devices aimed at bringing older IR-based appliances into the smart home. While both products are designed around infrared control, they take notably different approaches to both their core functionalities and Matter connectivity.
The first is a battery-powered Zigbee IR blaster that relies on one of the company’s Zigbee hubs for Matter support, making it a Matter over Bridge device. The second is a new Matter over WiFi AC controller with integrated temperature and humidity sensors, although this model is currently only available for pre-order.
GENERAL IR CONTROL VIA MATTER BRIDGE
The more versatile of the two products is the Zigbee Smart IR Blaster (actually packaged as the ’Smart Zigbee IR Bridge’), designed to control almost any appliance that relies on infrared commands. This includes televisions, ACs, fans, projectors, audio equipment, heaters, air purifiers, set-top boxes, and more.
Unlike native Matter devices, this model connects to a compatible Zemismart Zigbee hub, such as the M1 or M6, before being exposed to Matter. In other words, it functions as a Matter over Bridge device, allowing supported IR appliances to appear in platforms such as Apple Home, Google Home, SmartThings, and Home Assistant via the Tuya ecosystem. Whilst AC control will show up in Apple Home with the relevant controls, other devices will only show as generic on/off devices that allow them to be displayed as a plug, fan, or lamp.
One unusual feature is its built-in 700mAh rechargeable battery, allowing it to be positioned wherever infrared coverage is needed without requiring a permanent power connection. Combined with an adjustable mounting angle, a claimed 9m | 29.5ft infrared range, and a 120° transmission angle, the device should be flexible enough to cover most living rooms or bedrooms.
Zemismart also claims support for more than 200,000 infrared remote control codes, which should provide compatibility with the vast majority of consumer IR-controlled appliances.
NATIVE MATTER OVER WIFI FOR AIR CONDITIONERS
The second product is aimed specifically at infrared-controlled air conditioners, although it goes considerably further than simply replacing a remote control. Unlike the Zigbee model, this device supports Matter over WiFi directly, meaning it doesn’t require a Zigbee hub or Matter bridge. Once configured in the Tuya app, it can be shared with Matter platforms including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Homey, and Home Assistant.
Alongside infrared AC control, the unit incorporates indoor temperature and humidity sensors, displaying both on its 1.8” segment LCD display. The screen also shows WiFi status and a comfort indicator, providing a quick overview of room conditions.
An interesting aspect of the design is the supplied USB-C power cable, which incorporates the temperature and humidity sensor. This allows the sensor to be positioned away from the main unit, potentially providing more representative room readings while the controller itself remains aimed directly at the air conditioner. A magnetic base also makes it easier to adjust the angle for reliable infrared transmission.
According to Zemismart, the temperature sensor operates across a range of -10°C to 60°C, with an accuracy of ±0.3°C between 10°C and 50°C. Humidity measurement covers 0% to 99.9% RH, with quoted accuracy of ±4% RH between 20% and 80%. As this model is currently listed as a pre-sale product, shipping dates will depend on production availability.
While neither product adds direct control of appliances that lack infrared functionality, both provide a relatively straightforward way to bring older equipment into a Matter-enabled smart home.
The distinction between the two is perhaps the most interesting aspect. The Zigbee IR blaster relies on Matter bridging through a Zemismart hub, whereas the dedicated air conditioner controller connects directly using Matter over WiFi. For users already invested in the Tuya ecosystem, both should integrate cleanly into the major Matter platforms, with the choice largely depending on whether broad IR control or dedicated climate management is the priority.
You can preorder the Matter over WiFi IR Thermostat from ZemiSmart for US$34.95 + shipping, whilst the Zigbee Smart IR Blaster can be ordered now, also selling for US$34.95 + shipping.
