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Toss that remote, score one for cellphones
While we do truly adore that Tivo remote, it's getting harder and harder to keep things clean with all these gadgets and controllers cluttered about. Which is why the Appli Remote Controller is a stroke of absolute genius. Version one acts as a television program guide with search, and Appli Remote Controller 2 actually functions as a universal remote, complete with customizeable skins. But ditching all those remotes is just the beginning—just you think of the possibilities if this concept catchces on!
Ever lost your remote, and wished and prayed that you had some sort of remote control tracking device? Just call it up. Tired of line-of-sight IR remotes? Not anymore, if TVs receive via Bluetooth. Or how about picture-in-picture on the cell phone via Bluetooth? Or how about using headphones with the cell, which is receiving audio via Bluetooth so you can play games at night without disturbing your partner?
Even better: watching a movie and get a call? Set it so your cell/remote automatically pauses or mutes the program, and then resumes when you're done with your call. Or link the system up to your Tivo—when there's a spike in programming replays, set it to automatically send the clip to the phone via 3G (imagine seeing Janet's boob fall out completely without context in near-real-time while waiting in line at the DMV). Or monitor what your kids are watching on TV while you're not there. And don't even get us started on the possibilities of new cells with touch screens. Are you listening, TV manufacturers? This is going to be huge (please be sure to send royalties for these ideas to Engadget HQ, thanks).
