IpodRemote
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Griffin's Beacon for iOS devices now shipping, post-remote living for just $80
Sure, you could get a Peel Fruit to turn your iPhone into a universal remote, but if you want a totally wire-free solution Griffin's Beacon is finally available as an alternative. If you'll recall, the battery powered base -- controlled by Dijit's remote control app -- takes your iPhone or iPad's Bluetooth signal, converts it to IR, and blasts commands to your A/V gear. We spent some time with the device at CES and found the package to be quite nice thanks to the versatile base and relatively seamless app. If you're feeling the urge to switch up how you've been flipping through channels, $80 will get you one from Griffin's website or an Apple Store starting today.
DIY sewable iPod remote takes just ten minutes, will absolutely warm your heart
Okay, so we fully anticipate that creating the downright adorable object you see above will take far longer than ten minutes if you a) don't have a stash of circuits and fabrics laying around and / or b) you've never done anything like this before, but for seasoned DIYers, this is about as easy as it gets. The "10-minute sewable iPod remote" can actually be any character or design you feel like making, as the crux of this project relies on the circuit chip that is actually fitted inside the dock connector. From there, you just connect a few strands of conductive fabric, attach your kitty cat (or dragon, as the case may be) and begin to enjoy your homegrown iPod remote. Hit the read link for the full how-to, but only if you're immune to cuteoverloaditus.
iLuv's iEA15 adapter lets any headphones work with VoiceOver, iPhone
The suits in Cupertino already confirmed the existence of a proprietary chip in the new iPod shuffle headphones, but if you're squarely in the tin foil hat crowd, we've got one more shred of evidence to win you over. iLuv's newest adapter, the iEA15, outrightly asserts that it is "equipped with a remote control chip provided by Apple, Inc.," but it's the functionality of said adapter that has our interest piqued. Rather than settling for a set of VoiceOver-capable earbuds that you aren't really fond of, this here go-between enables any headphones with a 3.5 millimeter jack to connect with (and control) Apple's newest shuffle. Moreover, it'll play nice with the iPhone family as well, and the built in microphone enables you to handle a call without ever removing your 'buds. The frightening part is that no price and release date have been set, which probably means iLuv's lobbying to get that Made for iPod tax down in order to not charge $50 for this thing.[Via CNET]
Monster's latest iPod streamer, the Wireless Audio Bridge
While the iPod remotes have gotten closer and closer to replicating the iPod interface, there's still really no replacement for the original -- which is why we've seen several products that effectively turn the iPod itself into a remote by beaming music from a dock connector-attached transmitter directly to a base station. Monster's new Wireless Audio Bridge brings a dash of style to this approach, with a minimalist black-and-chrome base station and a sleek transmitter. Specs of note include a 30-foot range over the oh-so-popular 2.4GHz channel, and a not-unreasonable $99 pricetag. No word on availability, but we wouldn't be surprised to see these popping up relatively soon.
Philips SJM3151 universal remote mirrors your iPod screen
While Philips' latest universal remote lacks the genius design seen in the prototype book iteration, it's tough to deny the utility here. This universal remote may not sport the most luxurious button layout, but it does manage to control up to six devices and play nice with your iPod; moreover, the SJM3151's built-in LCD screen touts the ability to mimic your player's screen, so you can sneak a peek at what's on deck without squinting to see the faraway dock. Interestingly, this remote not only packs the infrared abilities we've come to expect, but it also speaks ZigBee in order to transmit signals "up to 300 feet." Of course, this multifaceted device won't run you cheap, as interested buyers will be asked to cough up $180 to procure one when it lands this fall.
Hookup Your iPod and Your Bluetooth Phone
Computerworld has an article up on some interesting products from Macworld that were potentially missed in the iPhone hoopla. Perhaps the most interesting of them is the hookup from Lenntek ($170). It is a two piece solution for integrating your iPod and Bluetooth phone. It features a transmitter that fits onto the Dock connector of your iPod and a wireless iPod remote into which you plug your own headphones. You pair your phone with the remote and then use it to listen to (and control) your iPod, but then when the phone rings, a press of a button will stop the music and connect the call. There is a microphone built into the remote so you can take your call and when it's finished you can get back to your tunes. This is not the first product of this type, but it seems that the sound quality is not bad (at least according to one review), and it definitely is a slick looking little device.In addition to the full-size hookup for the full-size iPod, Lenntek is also working on a lanyard model for use with the nano, but that one does not seem to be available yet.
EWOO Remote controls iPod and iTunes
Zicplay, a Swiss consumer electronics manufacturer just unveiled the EWOO, a remote control device that controls not just your iPod - but also your iTunes music and video library that resides on your computer.The EWOO system has a lightweight remote control, a dock, which holds and charges both your iPod and the remote itself, as well as a USB adapter that allows the remote to control your iTunes on your computer. The remote has a color TFT display, allowing for easy, intuitive use and navigation of iPod and iTunes. It operates at 2.4GHz frequency and boasts a 100ft range and 10-days of charge on the remote, thanks to its lithium polymer battery.The EWOO is expected to ship next month and retail for $129 USD. They have a pretty slick website, too, with more info and pics.
Keyspan now shipping TuneView iPod remote
Keyspan announced today that they have started shipping the TuneView for iPod remote control, which features a color LCD screen and utilizes 2-way RF connectivity. Keyspan calls it the "Ultimate Remote Control for iPod," and it does have a few unique features that set it apart from the crowd. The remote, which is powered by two AA batteries, uses a 2.4 Ghz radio signal that works through walls and has ten keys and a color LCD to remotely view the contents of your iPod as well as control playback features. The TuneView ships with a universal dock, dock inserts to accommodate different sized iPods (4G and 5G iPods with dock connectors), a USB power cable for charging via an AC outlet, and audio cables for connecting to stereos or powered speakers. You can connect the dock to your TV using the S-video jack, although you'll need to supply your own cable for that. Naturally, you can connect the dock your your Mac or PC and use it to sync with iTunes as well. Even better - the TuneView dock and TuneView remote both have upgradeable firmware, just like the iPod, so additional features can be added later on with a simple (one hopes) download.Although the $179 USD price tag is a bit steep, the TuneView sounds like it might be worth the price. If you pick one up, let us know how you like it!
Ugly and pointless Visual Remote for iPod
Color me confused on this one. A company called Advanced Technetix, Inc has popped up out of nowhere and started a Consumer Products division to unleash a seemingly pointless and mighty unattractive product targeted at iPod users. Their website is barren except for contact info and a tag line that says "The Future is Coming." Well we have seen the future, and it is butt-ugly.The CEO is quoted in the press release as saying "The Visual Remote works with any version [*] of the iPod, does not require any batteries and features a backlit LCD display that enables iPod users to completely control their device from this very small, unobtrusive unit. We are currently developing a wireless version of the Visual Remote and expect to have that version of the product available shortly." Since the iPod already has a backlit LCD for navigation and is barely bigger than this monstrosity, I'm not sure why you'd need it.Other selling points are said to include: Ability to control the iPod without removing it from your bag or pocket (because we know how strenuous a task that can be) Display allows for full menu functionality and control (just like if you took your iPod out of your pocket ) Backlit LCD screen (just like your iPod has) Specially designed sound isolating earbuds (I hope they sound better than this thing looks) Draws minimal power from iPod (I'm hoping that's not marketing speak for "sucks battery life like a vacuum") Designed for easy one hand operations (much like your iPod) Easy to wear, comfortable fit (except for the fact that it's this ugly thing tethered to you and your iPod) Connects to all iPods via Dock Connector (so much for any* version) Great for exercise (think of all those calories you'll burn running away from the fashion police and the cool kids who want to beat you up just for sport) The only thing I can think of that this is going to be useful for is iPod theft protection. Because with your iPod tucked safely in your pocket and this horrid thing dangling from your neck, no one would dare think you even owned an iPod. There... at least I found one nice thing to say about it.
Monster's iEZClick wireless RF remote for iPod
It started with prodigiously overpriced cabling, recently branched into network media / automation devices, and now Monster Cable is dabbling in that oh-so-profitable iPod accessory market with the iEZClick. The RF-enabled wireless remote system works essentially like Scosche's rendition, and boasts controls for your 'Pod's volume level, track / playlist skipping, hold switch, and on / off functions. A smallish receiver plugs directly into the dock connector, and the oversized black remote can beam commands "up to 30 feet away" while your reportedly coveted PMP resides safe in the confines of a knapsack, handbag, purse, or questionably fashionable jean pocket; the liaison can also be rocked on a belt, handlebars or your wrist thanks to the thoughtfully included elastic strap. While we're too scratching our heads wondering why "high-end" interconnect firms are apparently the top dogs when it comes to dishing out the most decorous iPod remotes, Monster's iEZClick can be had for a (presumably inflated) $69.95.[Via iLounge]
Belkin SportCommand for iPod
If you're hitting the slopes with your iPod this winter and you can't afford one of those swanky Burton iPod jackets, you might consider Belkin's new SportCommand - a wireless, weather-resistant, neoprene, armband remote. As you've come to expect from an iPod remote, this one will allow you to play, pause, skip tracks and a control the volume, and it has big enough buttons that even your gloved hands should be able to manage it. It'll set you back $79 USD and should be shipping in North America this November, with subsequent releases in Asia, Australia and Europe, so those of you heading to Zermatt for the holidays should be all set.
iPod remote with a display
Hammacher Schlemmer, the purveyor of expensive crap no one needs, has added an iPod Remote Control with Display to their catalog. This $139.95 device works with any Dock Connector equipped iPod. The screen on the remote displays the currently playing song, as well as playlists and what have you.It comes in black, or white.
Griffin TuneCenter: Now THAT'S a docking station
Shortly after I bought my 5G iPod, I got a Universal Dock and remote. The dock is...ok. It lets me play my videos, music and photos on a TV, all the while charging my iPod (as long as I spend yet another $20US for a cable, and a wall charger, bringing things to a grand total of $116US). Yet, it seems to lack that Apple flair we all love so much. I want my iPod to act as a media center when connected to my television. At first glance, it looks like the TuneCenter from Griffin Technology may be what I'm after.Viewing photo slide shows and watching videos work as you would expect. It's how the TuneCenter handles your music library that really has my interest. When connected to your TV, the TuneCenter displays track and playlist information. With the included remote, you can navigate your iPod's entire music library, adjust the EQ, set shuffle and repeat preferences, plus the usual play, skip, pause, forward and volume functions. Here's where it gets really cool: the TuneCenter also streams internet radio via your home network, either wirelessly or via ethernet. Again, on-screen navigation lets you select a station. The best part? It costs less than Apple's set up: $99.99US. Better features for less money? Yes, please.Griffin is taking pre-orders now. The TuneCenter will work with the following iPods: 3rd Generation iPod with touch wheel and buttons iPod mini 4th Generation iPod with Click Wheel IPod photo iPod U2 Special Edition 4th Generation iPod with Color Screen iPod nano 5th Generation iPod with Video
