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iPhone soon becoming 'full replacement' for Apple TV remote
TV remotes are all well and good, but they have a nasty habit of coming up missing at the worst possible moment -- Apple TV's new wand isn't immune to this malady. It should come as good news then that Cupertino's planning an update for the remote app on iOS with new features like voice commands with Siri. The news comes by way of an interview with Apple's Eddie Cue and Craig Federighi on tech pundit John Gruber's podcast this week.
Daily Update for November 29, 2012
It's the TUAW Daily Update, your source for Apple news in a convenient audio format. You'll get all the top Apple stories of the day in three to five minutes for a quick review of what's happening in the Apple world. You can listen to today's Apple stories by clicking the inline player (requires Flash) or the non-Flash link below. To subscribe to the podcast for daily listening through iTunes, click here. No Flash? Click here to listen. Subscribe via RSS
AT&T outs U-verse Easy Remote app for iOS, uses voice and gestures to take control
Not that much time has passed since AT&T announced it was bringing Zuckerberg's social network right to your U-verse-equipped TV, and now those with an iOS device are in for yet another treat. The Rethink Possible company just outed its new Easy Remote application for Apple's mobile operating system, with the main feature being a Watson-powered one that lets U-verse users control their system via voice -- you know, things like picking a show to watch or even flipping through channels. That's not it, however, the app also brings other tidbits such as one-touch access to closed captioning and gesture-based commands. Unfortunately, AT&T's Easy Remote app is only available for iOS at the moment, though we can't imagine it'll be too long before the carrier launches one for folks on a different ecosystem. Either way, you can get a quick glimpse of the application right after the break, where a pretty edifying video awaits.
Onkyo upgrades remote apps for latest-gen receivers, intros music streaming Bluetooth adapter
It's been a little less than a year since Onkyo first entered the software-based remote space, and now the company's ready to give those controls a major boost with the help of a much needed refresh to its iOS, Android applications. To kick things off, Onkyo's Remote 2 app is finally making music streaming capabilities friendly with this year's TX-NR receivers, while other under-the-hood enhancements were made to the various remote zone functions. In addition to these improvements, Onkyo also introduced its $60 UBT-1 Bluetooth adapter, essentially offering the same tune streaming features but "through a hardware gateway" and, best of all, at a much higher quality. Unlike the USB dongle (which is available now), however, the free apps won't be available until sometime "at the end of the month" from Cupertino's App Store, Google Play and Amazon's custom shop. In the meantime, you can keep yourself occupied by checking out the official pressers and UBT-1 picture right after the break.
Roku 2, LT and new HD boxes upgraded for more languages, future remote apps
Over on the Roku blog the company just announced it's delivering a software 4.8 upgrade starting today. First up there's a few new features included right away like support for Spanish and German in the UI, performance optimizations and playback improvement for channels like MLB.tv and GBTV. More interesting however is the prospect of what's to come, as it also note "under the hood" preparations for new channels and features, promising upgrades for the iOS and Android remote apps soon. Like the last upgrade, the new version is getting pushed to Roku 2 and LT boxes now, while new HD boxes should see it next week.
Panasonic Lumix FX90 gets remote app for iOS and Android
Taking full advantage of the Lumix FX90's WiFi capability, Panasonic has unveiled its companion apps for both iOS and Android devices. Throwing in shutter functionality and zoom control alongside a larger viewfinder, it's pretty much a glossy dumb remote; there's no further features to make the most of your precious smartphone, although the camera itself is already capable of linking up your camera shots with your major social network of choice. The app requires a firmware update on the camera, but it should ensure all those self-portraits really pop in the future. Download links for the wannabe self-obsessed are waiting below.
TiVo iOS app updated to v1.9 with a few new features, Android tablet app on the way
The TiVo iOS app has been updated v1.9, and whether you're on iPad or iPhone there's a slew of new fixes and tweaks available. On both platforms, the Facebook login has been streamlined, there's To Do List / Season Pass management for Series3 DVRs, ability to create a WishList search and more. The iPad version features a new full-screen Browse UI (shown above) and collapsible folders while the iPhone receives high res retina display quality images. Zatz Not Funny mentions those higher quality pics will come to the iPad as well in the next few weeks, while TiVo's blog post mentions all of these features will arrive in its Android app(s) this summer. We say apps plural, because that's including a specialized Tablet version due in the springtime. For now however, the changelogs for the iOS versions are available at the links below.Update: Just an FYI, the official TiVo app for Android has also been updated, adding support for more resolutions, an exit button in the menu and unspecified performance and stability fixes.
Apple Remote version 2.3 supports iTunes Match, iPad Retina display
The updates keep coming. Apple has issued version 2.3 of its Remote app (free, universal) for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch. This update provides support for the new iPad's Retina display and iTunes Match on the Apple TV. Go get it, folks!
Official Roku remote app rolls out for Android
After delivering its official remote app for iOS in December, Roku has quickly followed that up with a version for Android. Claiming compatibility with any Android 2.1+ device, it appears to have all the latest tweaks from the iPhone version already included, with a D-Pad and shortcuts to popular apps. Users can also do the same basic functions like add / remove / rate channels, control playback, and control multiple Rokus. Hit the Android Market at the link below to snag the free app for yourself or head over to Roku's blog to let it know if this is truly better than the numerous unofficial apps already available.
Roku remote for iOS updated, easier navigation features in tow
Good news for folks who are enjoying the virtual hook-up between a certain line of miniature entertainment boxes and an iOS device. The Roku app's just hit version 1.1 and is bringing along some relatively fancy, but more importantly, useful features. Some of the new bits include a D-pad filled with buttons and shortcuts for apps like Netflix, Pandora and Crackle. Also, there's the inclusion of a new swipe-based remote -- which is optional -- that should help make navigating through applications a bit easier while you're lounging on the couch. You can grab the updated goodies now by heading to the App Store or hitting up the source link below.
TiVo Premiere update brings HD guide, multi-room streaming, more (Update: Android remote app too!)
It's too early to know if this is the big TiVo update fans have been waiting for since the release of the Premiere, but there's no doubt it's a significant one. For starters, the guide has finally gotten the upgraded HD treatment -- no word if it is the only remaining old screen to get refreshed. Next up is official Premiere-to-Premiere streaming, which frees your recorded TV to be watched in any room of the house, even if the content is marked Copy Once. Other notable improvements include the integration of Hulu Plus content in TiVo search results, a revamped discover bar that actually discloses why the content is featured -- we assume this will make it more useful -- and hitting select while watching live TV now brings up a mini-guide and updated program info screen. All in all it is a nice list, but the truth will be told once some have had a chance to try it out. When that might be is still somewhat unknown, but feel free to force your Premiere to connect to TiVo service now to find out if you are in the lucky few to be the first to get the update. Update: We've got one more surprise treat for you, as a reader alerted us the official TiVo Remote app is now available in the Android Market. It claims to be compatible with phones and 7-inch tablets running Android 2.1 and up, so YMMV. Grab it at the link below, and if you've just got to get this update as soon as possible, follow @TiVoDesign on Twitter and then email in your service number for the chance of a priority update. [Thanks, @DanJacobsen!]
WD TV Live, Live Hub get an official iOS remote app, Vudu streaming and more
Western Digital is making sure its hardware can keep pace in the media streamer arms race, matching recent additions by Microsoft and Roku by issuing updates of its own. New services added to the WD TV Live and WD TV Live Hub boxes are Vudu (with HDX 1080p support, unlike the Xbox 360), SnagFilms, XOS College Sports, SEC Digital, Comedy Time and Watch Mojo. To help users navigate through all the extra content, it also recently rolled out its own official iOS remote app, although like Roku, there have already been a few unofficial options available as well. The WD TV remote is a free app and offers direct access to any of the services on your WD TV box and even multiplayer gaming provided all devices are on the same network. An Android version is said to be in the works, for now owners can check out all the details in the press release after the break or hit iTunes to download the app.
Roku's official iPhone remote app is available, has gesture control and channel selection for all
Directly on the heels of an update for its newest media streamers, Roku has released its official iPhone remote app. Apparently "inspired by user feedback", it allows users to launch or rate channels, control the box with touches and swipes, and add or remove channels from their box directly from the app itself. Probably the best news about it is that it will work with all generations of Roku hardware, and can even pair to multiple boxes. Usage requires the box and iOS device be connected on the same network, and for users to sign in with their Roku account, but that's it. Hit the source link to grab the free app now, or check out a couple more screenshots in the gallery below, then let us know how it measures up to the numerous third party solutions (like DVPRemote) currently available. Roku already promised an Android version is in the works, so we'll keep an eye out for that to arrive soon. %Gallery-141926%
Soundfreaq's Sound Stack Bluetooth speaker sports dual subwoofers, $400 pricetag
Soundfreaq doesn't release speaker systems often, but it's safe to expect something spectacularly sexy when it does. Such is exactly the case with its latest audiophile-aimed creation, the Sound Stack wireless speaker. The company is toting this $400 Bluetooth-enabled HiFi rig as a "2.2" speaker system, thanks to its DubSub design -- a duo of active subwoofers pump out lowend in an effort to complement its two other "full-range" drivers. Soundfreaq's also packed this puppy with its UQ3 processing to keep the soundstage wide despite the unit's size. Better yet, downloading a free Remote App (available on Android and iOS) unlocks the system's FM radio -- perfect for when you're feeling nostalgic. If that wasn't enough, the Sound Stack's also loaded with an iThing dock and a USB input, both of which can be used to re-juice your devices while streaming. If your Gadget Acquisition Syndrome is already kicking in, fret not, the Sound Stack is available for purchase now. You'll find more details past the break.
Xbox Companion app for WP7 shown off at Nokia World, leaks Vudu integration (video)
Even if you're not planning on picking up one of Espoo's latest handsets, Microsoft is also on the scene at Nokia World 2011 giving live demos of the upcoming Xbox Companion remote app for Windows Phone 7. It allows for simple remote control of video playback on one's console, plus content browsing / search with Bing and other metadata display, as seen in two demo videos from the show floor embedded after the break. Also seen in both of the demo videos? An orange tile suspiciously labeled Vudu Movies, despite the lack of any official announcement that the (currently PS3 exclusive) Wal-mart owned service is coming to Xbox Live. A third demo shows off gaming integration with Kinectimals that lets animals jump back and forth from console to phone. Now that the Xbox 360 will integrate search and playback from more video services than ever after the fall update, we'll see if the remote app draws Xbox fans to Microsoft's phone platform. [Thanks, @AttilaG]
DirecTV iPad app upgrade adds easy multiroom DVR control, HDUI compatibility
A new update for DirecTV's official iPad app just showed up in iTunes, adding the ability to manage recordings on all of your connected HD DVRs. As seen in the screenshot above, v1.2.6 ties into the company's whole home DVR setup by letting a user control one box directly, then browse recordings stored elsewhere and play them in the room in the room where they are. Also new is the ability to delete DVR'd shows straight from the iPad, and readers tell us that after the upgrade the app has begun working with the revamped HDUI beta that DirecTV started testing a couple of weeks ago. Hit the source link below to grab it for yourself from iTunes. [Thanks, SV & Stuart]
Yahoo! Connected TV watches with you, delivers a more personal ad experience
For a medium heavily ridiculed for its zombie-making capabilities, television is certainly taking on more of an active role courtesy of Yahoo! Connected TV. Coming later this year to select Sony and Toshiba models, the interactive software that's already in eight million homes gains two new features destined to either creep you out, or snag you a twofer on those wings -- broadcast interactivity, and device control. While the latter enhancement merely transforms your smartphone or tablet into an extended remote, it's the former that'll turn your TV choices into a game of peeping Tom, delivering ads custom-fit for you. But the old, yodeling tech giant's not stopping there -- the company also plans to trot out an app store by the years' end, which is currently in pilot testing with Ford and HSN (among others). If widget-based ads are your thing, you might want to hold off until the big manufacturer roll-out next year, or you could always consider that Google option. Brain-rot, please meet the tech loop.
Poll: Are you watching TV with/on a tablet?
Adding a tablet component to your TV service is all the rage among providers and set-top box manufacturers these days (Comcast, DirecTV, Dish, TiVo, Motorola, FiOS, Cablevision, Time Warner, Boxee just to name a few) but our question today is how many of our EHD readers are putting any of them to use. Check out the poll options below and find the one that fits you best, then tell us why in the comments below. Are all these iPad apps just a fad or is the tablet here to stay? %Poll-62573%
Comcast's Xfinity TV app for iOS updated with more streaming and customization
Comcast is back with what it's calling the third major release of its Xfinity TV app for iOS, and while the product team says it's added streaming content from IFC, Adult Swim, BBC and more the key upgrade is in customizations. It features a new favorites list that is most improved by its ability to sync with the XfinityTV website, a new channel keypad for quick changes when used as a remote and the ability to jump to specific dates in the TV listings. The iPhone version has also gotten a tweak, with the addition of a "flip through previous channels" feature previously restricted to the iPad version. Of course the next question is when we can expect these enhancements to filter over to the recently launched Android version, and also when Comcast is planning to follow Time Warner through the live channel streaming door, despite the loud protests of some of the TV networks against it.
Google TV Remote app now available for iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch
After debuting it on the Android platform in December, the Google TV team has finally released a version of the official remote app for iOS. The interface and features appear to be the same with one key difference, currently the iOS version doesn't support sharing web pages from mobile to the screen, but everything else like voice search is here and accounted for. It's good for the team to finally get the long promised app out, but more interesting now is the question of which features will be included in the second generation of Google TV hardware once manufacturers like Vizio, Toshiba and Samsung join the mix, hopefully putting the two handed/keyboard kludginess of the past behind us. Check after the break for the YouTube demo, or just grab the free app via the QR code on the official blog or iTunes.
