PowerA debuts new iPhone universal remote case
updated 11:00 pm EST, Tue February 23, 2010
Controls up to 20 electronic devices
PowerA has introduced the latest product in its line of iPhone accessories, a universal remote case. The case is paired with the company’s corresponding iPhone application, enabling users to control multiple electronic devices via infrared (IR). The software is capable of storing profiles for up to 20 different remotes, with a variety of potential functions such as playback or volume. Users can also combine buttons from multiple devices under one interface.
The case consists of three different parts, with the top section covering the majority of the iPhone’s back and side surfaces. The bottom piece completes the protective guard, while the third component integrates the infrared transmitter. In order to control a device, users simply open a new profile within the app and sync the transmitter.
The remote case is expected to be available soon from Apple’s website for $60, while the iPhone app can be downloaded from the App Store for free.
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Feb 2010
First available but Minimal Features
The PowerA remote seems to have won the race to market the first direct IR Remote accessory and App, however, after buying and testing it, they should have taken more time. This is barely a universal remote, in that you only get one remote layout and you can't edit or add buttons. It lacks the most important feature of a universal remote, an IR Code database. It is only a learning remote which means you have to have the original remote to use it. No replacing lost remotes. Learning is tedious, but it worked with some issues as described in the product FAQs. There is no concept of macros, favorites or activities.
The other announced products soon to be released are the L5 and the Re. Both are "dongle" accessories rather than a case which is a PowerA feature. Why did they go to the trouble and still leave the interface upside down? The L5 is also a learning remote, but appears to have more features than the PowerA.
The only truly universal IR remote with a local database is the Re by http;//www.newkinetix.com. I've tested the Beta version of a Re, and it has features that make it better than high end remotes like the Harmony. Because of the local database of 1000's of devices, you can use it anywhere and you don't need the original remote. The buttons and layout are editable, and you can have as many activities, favorites lists and macros as you want. The dongle wasn't an issue and they include a handy storage pouch to carry it with you.