Honor has confirmed that its entire Magic9 smartphone series will feature infrared (IR) remote control capabilities, with the Pro Max model boasting an enhanced 360° system.
Innovative Infrared Integration
Honor R&D engineer, known as @Honor Cao Gong, recently clarified queries regarding the IR functionality on the Magic9 series, addressing the absence of a visible IR emitter hole on the top of the phones. He revealed that all Honor Magic9 models are equipped with IR capabilities. Specifically, the Honor Magic9 Pro Max stands out with Honor’s proprietary “360° Infrared Remote Control Enhancement” technology. This advanced feature ensures full-angle coverage, allowing users to control devices without the need for precise aiming.
For the standard Honor Magic9 and Honor Magic9 Supercharged Edition, the IR remote function has been cleverly integrated into the camera module. This placement eliminates the need to point the top of the phone towards appliances like TVs and air conditioners, as was common with older designs. Users can now operate devices simply by holding the phone upright, offering a more convenient and effortless user experience.
Magic9 Series Performance and Market Reception
The Honor Magic9 series, launched on September 28th, includes the Magic9 Pro Max, Magic9, and Magic9 Supercharged Edition. Pricing starts at 4499 yuan. Following the launch, Honor’s Global Chief Marketing Officer, Guan Haitao, announced on October 1st that the activation rate of the Magic9 series within the first three days of release saw a significant increase of over 70% compared to its predecessor. This growth was attributed to factors including product availability.
Further details from a previous ITHome report indicate that the Magic9 series debuted in 2026 (note: the year might be a typo in the source) with three models. The Magic9 Supercharged Edition and the Magic9 start at 4499 yuan and 4999 yuan, respectively, while the flagship Magic9 Pro Max is priced from 6499 yuan.
Understanding Phone Infrared Technology
The principle behind smartphone infrared remote control involves an integrated IR transmitter emitting signals to the IR receiver panel of home appliances. Due to power consumption limitations in smartphones, the IR transmission power is typically less than that of dedicated remote controls. Users are generally advised to operate within 7 meters, with an angle deviation of 0 to 45 degrees, and ensuring no obstructions. Strong direct light can also interfere with IR signal reception. This is why previous implementations often placed the IR emitter at the top of the phone, requiring users to aim it accurately. The new design in the Magic9 and Magic9 Supercharged Edition, placing the IR module within the camera array, resolves this by allowing control with a normal upright grip.
Honor’s Commitment to IR Functionality
Infrared remote control is not a new feature for Honor. The technology is currently supported across a wide range of Honor’s popular series, including the Magic series, Number series, X series, GT series, and Play series. This broad implementation ensures IR functionality is available across various price points, from mid-range to flagship devices. Other manufacturers, such as Xiaomi, have also adopted similar design strategies by integrating IR transmitters into their camera deco areas.
In a separate communication with the media, Honor CEO Li Jian previously shared that the Magic9 series achieved an impressive sales performance, with domestic e-commerce platforms seeing a 194% year-on-year increase in sales compared to the previous flagship series within just half an hour of its official launch.
