ESPN unveils The Ultimate Remote, is WiFi worth $300?
By Richard Lawler 
posted May 20th 2008 8:20PM
posted May 20th 2008 8:20PM
ESPN's unleashing The Ultimate Remote, developed by tvCompass, complete with 2.2-inch QVGA LCD screen and 802.11 b/g WiFi stuffed in a 6.5 oz package. It's certainly a serious contender with the Harmony One -- and priced like it, at $300. The marketing info claims no PC is required for setup, recharging via USB, an internet browser with real time access to scores, fantasy info and TV listings for broadcast, cable and satellite from click365's wireless partners. There's even a messaging feature for texting from remote to remote, email, or to a cellphone. We got a glimpse of it at Microsoft's booth during CES, and while it claims "Advanced Microsoft Windows operating software" it's not talking about SideShow. It reminds us a lot of the Ricavision VAVE100 MCE/SideShow remote, but with a slightly different feature set. Father's Day is coming up and suddenly walking over to the computer (or keeping a laptop or PDA/phone on the couch) is sounding like a lot of unnecessary work. Check after the break for a bigger pic with keypad breakdown, or head to Amazon to preorder.[Via Electronista]
bad ergonomics like the older Harmony's (I.e. 550, 880). Wouldn't buy for that reason alone. Looks more like a long mobile phone than a remote control.
bluetooth?
No bluetooth?
No thanks.
After using the Harmony One, which is a true work of art for under 300$, I am disgusted by this creepy mix of the Motorola ROKR's keypad and side profile (only thing missing is the club lights), and the harmony 550's channel/volume button placement.
Here is the main problem with this. I requires no computer to configure thanks to the 802.11b/g, however recharging the unit requires a USB connection. The Harmony One's cradle design is a MUCH more elegant solution. One would think programming the remote by PC would be a more pleasant experience versus the painful "iTap" method on this device. Just because you can build it into the interface does not mean it's better. I only have to connect the USB cable once to a Harmony, then I cradle it to recharge. There is no independence from PC here.
Come to think of it, the people this is geared towards would probably appreciate the "club lights" feature...
Gotta have RF for me to consider. After not having to point my URC remote for a year I'll never go back to pointing. Only reason why I've never considered the Harmony One.
As far as bluetooth, the only device I know of that uses bluetooth is the PS3, which is silly if you ask me. All the IR kits for the PS3 should show Sony that being different is not exactly "cool."
Agreed. All remotes should be RF, it is worlds better.
This is lowest common denominator consumer BS. All those looking to get an actual good home theater remote should look at the Home Theater Master remotes from Universal Remote Control:
http://www.universalremote.com/pro/products.php
And yeah - to those asking for bluetooth - Why?
Where's the MUTE button for the wife on this thing?