iPhone/iPod touch Remote Control

Say what you will about scroll wheels versus touch screens but you can't effectively operate a touch screen from your pocket. Fortunately the iPhone provides decent, and the iPod touch excellent, compatibility with standard iPod accessories like this $6.30 Borgvik remote control from Kai Domain (formerly Fifth Unit). It's labeled as a nano device but works well with both touch and iPhone.

Using a remote allows you to operate your iPhone or iPod touch without physically touching the screen. As you can see in the picture here, this remote allows you to to adjust playback volume, play and pauses and navigate between tracks.

Of course, if you're using the iPhone earbuds, a remote control isn't particularly necessary. The squeeze control located on the headset wires allows you to pause/play (single squeeze) and skip to the next track (double squeeze). If you prefer to use your own earphones (as I do) or play back through the iPhone speakers (not necessarily in your pocket), a remote can come in handy. The control clips to your shirt so you don't have to keep grabbing to find it.

Be aware that the iPhone throws up a warning whenever the remote attaches, letting you know that the accessory was not made for the iPhone. It prompts you to enter Airplane mode, a choice you can readily decline.

The attached adapter plug works well with the iPod touch but does not fit into the iPhone's unusually deep headphone jack. Overall performance with an iPhone: 3 Apples out of 5, with an iPod touch: 4 Apples out of 5.

My personal iPod touch with remote: