Universal Remote

Zero1.tv's popular VooMote One universal remote control just got a ton of upgrades with Version 1.3, giving it improved functionality and expanded compatibility. And to make it even better, the company has announced that this weekend you can get your hands on the device for just $19.95 on Buy.com Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday only (that's a $50 savings!).

VooMote One turns your iPhone/iPod touch into a universal remote control for every room of your home. The new features in version 1.3 include 14,000 new codes (increasing the infrared code library by 11%) and 700 new remotes so that more devices are compatible with the VooMote One. The firmware has also been updated for a more seamless and simple application experience. The buttons have been reconfigured as well to better match an actual remote control, including the ability to hold a button down to continuously send a certain command (i.e. volume louder).

Zero1.tv didn't stop there. They also repaired a bug in the older app so users can now connect with Sony and Panasonic TVs (previously not compatible). In addition, VooMote One also stays connected to your iPhone and iPod even when on standby, so you won't need to frequently reconnect. This free upgraded app is also available to current VooMote One owners, and can be accessed by simply syncing your device with your iTunes account. Read more

Earlier this year we told you about the Beacon Universal Remote Control System for iOS devices. Today, Griffin Technology and Dijit announced a new Android version of Beacon, allowing smartphone and tablet owners to use their Android device as a remote to control TVs, DVRs, stereos and other home entertainment devices.

It works like this: The wireless AV controller (Beacon) pairs with Android devices via Bluetooth. The Bluetooth signals from smartphones/tablets are then converted by Beacon into infrared signals required to control consumer electronics devices. Beacon works with Dijit's free Universal Remote App for complete, touchscreen control over the entire home entertainment system directly from the Android interface.

Beacon is powered by 4 AA batteries. Set-up is easy too, with no cases or dongles, no wires or cables. Just pair via Bluetooth and download the free Dijit app for Android, which is compatible with tablets and smartphones running Android OS 2.3.3 or greater.Read more

We've told you all about the VooMote One, a device/app combo that turns your iPhone into a universal remote control. It was (and still is) a huge hit, but Zero1 has an even better solution, the VooMote Zapper.

Unveiled today at the IFA show, this device, like the VooMote One, converts your iOS device into a smart universal remote that controls your A/V gear and allows you to find your favorite TV shows. As small as a paperclip, it simply plugs into the 30-pin connector on your iOS device. Once you download the free app, you'll have full control over thousands of electronic devices. Thanks to its intuitive set up, no manuals, websites, cords or PCs are necessary.

The VooMote Zapper app that goes along with the device is fully customizable, allowing you to optimize the layout of your remote. In addition, its Edit Mode can be used to create macros that execute functions with one touch, and the Room Control and One View features allow you to categorize your devices by room location and also control multiple devices with just one touch on your touch screen. A handy TV Guide feature is on it as well, for TV show navigation on your iPad.Read more

Zero1.tv's VooMote One is now available in the United States. A device/app combo, VooMote One turns your iPhone or iPod touch into a universal remote control.

Why is it different from all the rest? First off, it's easy to set up - no computer required. Download the free app and adjust the settings using your iPhone. In addition, the VooMote One's "One View" feature allows you to create personalized (and multiple) device remote control layouts – even create an entire chain of commands with just a click. For example, you can lower the volume on the stereo while pressing play on your DVD, or turn on your TV, your DVD player and surround sound speakers with the press of a button. It also has a handy Room Control feature which groups all of your electronics devices by location.

Available now for $99, you can pick it up at www.zero1.tv, Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, Buy.com, B&H, Ritz Interactiv and BrandsMart, with more retailers to come. The VooMote One app can be downloaded for free at the iTunes store.

It seems that everywhere you turn there's a new app or gadget that will turn your iPhone into a remote control. Zero1.tv's new VooMote One device, when paired with the free app, is said to do that and much more.

The VooMote One slides onto your iPhone (no worries, you still have full control over your iPhone) and once connected and the app loaded, it turns your iPhone into a fully functional universal remote for your TV, DVD player, stereo system, game console and more.

Sounds familiar, right?

What sets the VooMote One apart is its customization options and easy setup. The VooMote One offers a "One View" feature, allowing you to create personalized (and multiple) device remote control layouts. For example, you can lower the volume on the stereo while pressing play on your DVD. And by using the "One Touch" feature you can create an entire chain of commands with a single click - press one button and you can turn on your TV, turn on your DVD player, and hear all of the action on your surround sound speakers. Read more

Griffin and Dijit have teamed up on the Beacon Universal Remote, a hardware and app system which turns your iPhone, iPad or other iOS device into a Universal Remote Control. Not just offering TV control, Beacon allows you to control your entire entertainment system.

Beacon turns your smartphone or iOS device into an easy-to-use remote for home entertainment systems by converting Bluetooth signals from your device to the infrared commands your components are expecting. Beacon pairs your iOS device or smartphone with Dijit's free Universal Remote App, giving you complete control of your home entertainment center with no wires or cables.

Setup is easy. Paired with Beacon via Bluetooth, your smartphone is just a few taps away from using Dijit's intuitive Programming Guide. Your Multi-Touch or touch screen display is the remote. You can change channels, volume, input, program your DVR, and lots, lots more.Read more

I have praised Logitech's universal Harmony remotes in the past, and now I give the company even more accolades for introducing a remote for the budget-minded consumer. Priced at under $50, the new Logitech Harmony 300 is first remote in the Harmony line offered at such an affordable price.

The Harmony 300 replaces up to four devices, making it perfect for those who have only a few devices to control. The remote includes a "Watch TV" button that turns on your TV and cable or satellite box with just one press. It also has a set of programmable buttons that you can use to go directly to your favorite channels. Read more

This new high-end remote control allows programming completely via its own interface. No PC or internet connection is required. The setup wizard guides you to configure the Universal Remote Digital URC-R50 to control up to 18 other devices.

But simple doesn't mean inflexible or limiting. The URC-R50 can have 48 custom labeled buttons for each of those 18 devices.

It uses four standard AA batteries and will accept rechargeables. Sofa Mode keeps the battery from being drained if a button is pressed for a long time.

The URC-R50 can be purchased now at major retailers like Best Buy or online at BestBuy.com for $149.