The XIAO Smart IR Mate is a compact circular-shaped IR remote hub/blaster built around the XIAO ESP32-C3 and designed for IoT applications. It comes pre-flashed with ESPHome and turns traditional IR-controlled appliances like TVs, air conditioners, and projectors into smart devices that can be automated, controlled, or integrated into home automation systems.
The module includes three high-power IR LEDs for 360° transmission, a high-sensitivity IR receiver supporting up to 10 learned IR commands, and there’s also haptic feedback through a touch sensor and status LED. It supports Wi-Fi 2.4GHz & BLE, and is powered via USB Type-C. Measuring only 65 x 19mm, it can be a great tool for your DIY projects.
XIAO Smart IR Mate specifications
- MCU module – XIAO ESP32C3
- SoC – Espressif Systems ESP32-C3
- CPU – Single-core RISC-V microcontroller @ 160 MHz
- Memory – 400KB SRAM
- Storage – 384KB ROM
- Wireless Wi-Fi 4 & Bluetooth LE 5.0 connectivity
- Storage – 4MB flash
- Connectivity – Wi-Fi 2.4GHz and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE, for custom development)
- Antenna – External u.FL antenna (Probably using a flexible antenna)
- SoC – Espressif Systems ESP32-C3
- IR Transmission – 3x high-power infrared LEDs for 360° signal coverage
- IR Reception – 1x high-sensitivity IR receiver for signal learning
- USB – USB Type-C port for power and firmware flashing (via CH343)
- Misc
- Touch sensor
- Vibration motor for haptic feedback
- Status indicator LED
- Reset button
- Stores up to 10 learned IR commands
- Dimensions – 65 mm (diameter) x 19 mm (height)
Seeed Studio’s ESP32-C3-based IR remote hub runs ESPHome firmware with native Home Assistant integration for easy automation and IR control. Users can customize or re-flash it via ESPHome to add advanced features like smart AC control or extended IR commands, with support for OTA updates and browser-based flashing. More information about the module is available on the Wiki.
This type of device is not quite new, and for example, we previously wrote about the ESP 360 Remote, a feature-rich but pricier IR and RF controller with 9 IR LEDs, 433/315 MHz RF support, and built-in light and temperature/humidity sensors based on ESP32-WROOM-32E. In comparison, the Smart IR Mate only comes with wifi and IR functionality.
The XIAO Smart IR Mate is available on AliExpress for $10.82 and on Seeed Studio’s store for $9.90.
Debashis Das is a technical content writer and embedded engineer with over five years of experience in the industry. With expertise in Embedded C, PCB Design, and SEO optimization, he effectively blends difficult technical topics with clear communication
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