This in-wall iPod dock doubles as a home automation controller
By Ben Drawbaugh 
posted January 23rd 2010 4:13PM
posted January 23rd 2010 4:13PM
Although we usually think it is crazy when an iPod dock costs more than the iPod, this new one from iPort is pretty slick. Rather than just be an in-wall iPod dock that gives those with whole home audio and automation controllers two-way interaction with your music, this one doubles as a control point. What you do is drop the iPod Touch or iPhone into the dock and slap on the magnetic face place -- which looks kinda funny with those squares on it. At this point you can not only access the music on the iPod, but you can also control your lights and other aspects of your home automation system from the same point -- a pretty good idea, we have to say. Not only does this reduce the number of in-wall devices, but we'd bet when the price is announced it'll be considerably less than the $1000+ that other in-wall touch screen controllers will run you -- not to mention capacitive instead of resistive.
Amazing Idea / Integration!!!!
If i had an Iphone i would invest in this!!!
@y0Lbow
My guess is this will be even cooler when the tablet comes out. Bigger screen = even better.
Amazing Idea / Integration!!!!
If i had an Iphone i would invest in this!!!
This is exactly what the world of av integration and automation needs. I have been looking at iPort for a while but am now convinced of it's abilities. The only way that this device is truly worth the Price tag though, is if the client has more than one iPod touch. This will allow for one master device and several local devices.
I have an iPod touch 2 iPhones (I use them for seperate functions as an AV integrator and installer for my company) and my wife has an iPhone. For us this would be a very nice addition to our automated home.
Now if only we could get some Android Love.
@maythetechbewithyou
@maythetechbewithyou
where there's an app...there's a way!
Umm. But doesn't the iPhone/iPod touch have Wifi and arent there already home automation remote programs for them? Sure, this charges them, but wouldn't you rather carry it around like a remote most of the time? (just charge it at night)
@LazarusDark
the whole point of an in wall device like this is it's flash factor, brand reliability and the clients comfortability with the product they purchase. When you purchase a product for something you already own and know, it is much more likely that you will use it much more frequently.
The iPhone and iTouch have become part of people's lifestyle, why not extend that style to the home? The only drawback to this solution is that it has to be compatible with the automated services you already own.