Computer Help and Support

TygrBright

(20,761 posts) Mon Dec 17, 2018, 09:01 PM Dec 2018

Is there such a thing as a programmable bluetooth remote device?

We got an adorable cat toy as a present, but it requires a smart phone, which we don't have. Or other mobile device, but apparently his old iPad and my old Android tablet aren't compatible.

Is there such a thing as a generic mobile device that can be loaded with a smartphone-type app from an app store, and paired with a bluetooth gadget to make it work?

hopefully,
Bright

3 replies

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Is there such a thing as a programmable bluetooth remote device? (Original Post) TygrBright Dec 2018 OP

Does your Android tab have a usb port? ucrdem Dec 2018 #1

The tablet has USB, but apparently it doesn't meet the app's standards...? TygrBright Dec 2018 #2

you might not need the app ucrdem Dec 2018 #3

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)

1. Does your Android tab have a usb port?

Reply to TygrBright (Original post)

Wed Dec 19, 2018, 03:59 AM

Dec 2018

If it does, you can get a generic bluetooth dongle for about 10 bucks on Amazon. If it doesn't, one or the other might have a built-in bluetooth antenna that can be coaxed into working by trying to pair it through the control panel.but I've found it's easier to use a dongle than an antenna. Good luck!

TygrBright

(20,761 posts)

2. The tablet has USB, but apparently it doesn't meet the app's standards...?

Reply to ucrdem (Reply #1)

Wed Dec 19, 2018, 10:33 AM

Dec 2018

Might try a dongle, thanks for the suggestion.

Right now the app store just tells us "this app won't work on your device."

Possibly a dongle would help.

appreciatively,
Bright

ucrdem

(15,512 posts)

3. you might not need the app

Reply to TygrBright (Reply #2)

Wed Dec 19, 2018, 11:40 PM

Dec 2018

or the dongle if you have a bluetooth device already. If the toy has a switch and /or pairing button try turning it on and see if shows up on the BT list on one of the pads. If it does, pair it and voilà, smart cat toy! If not your cat will probably enjoy it anyway!

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