Smart Remote
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Peel doesn't need any extra hardware to make your iPhone a Dish and DirecTV remote
The ability to turn iPhones into remote controls is something Peel has done before, but this time out it's doing things slightly different. With its new iOS app, Peel now lets you use your iPhone, iPod touch and/or iPad as a smart remote for Dish Network and DirecTV boxes, without the need for additional hardware -- which was the case with the Fruit, a $99 peripheral the startup introduced about three years ago. Peel's iOS application isn't just a remote, however; it also comes with discovery features that bring you personalized recommendations on stuff you should watch. In addition to that, Peel acts as a TV guide too, allowing you to easily find shows or movies even if you're not a Dish or DirecTV subscriber. Peel Smart Remote and TV Guide is compatible with the Dish Hopper and Hopper with Sling (excluding some models), as well as any WiFi-equipped DirecTV box.
Apple's Smart Remote is just like a Wiimote
Apple liked what they saw when the Wiimote was unveiled. Back in May, we caught wind of a patent that Apple had for a Wiimote-like remote control of their own, for use with Apple TV. Well, the patent is back again, as you can see above, complete with IR sensor and accelerometer action, and dubbed the Apple Smart Remote. So, we're guessing this thing is going to be unveiled soon and we'll see if Apple's version of the Wiimote can compete with Nintendo and their latest console.
TV Compass sneaks WiFi, LCD equipped Smart Remote by FCC
If you're looking for a little bit of extra snazz in your TV remote, then you might be interested in the Windows Embedded Smart Remote from TV Compass, which takes a few Windows Mobile interface cues, mixes in some WiFi and a LCD, and manages to do little more than its smart remote peers, just with a little more ugly. The remote, which just recently passed through the FCC, does all that usual channel-changing and home theater control stuff, plus adds in WiFi for programming guides off the internets. You can also access news, weather and the like via WiFi and the click365 service. No word on detailed specs, launch date or price, but perhaps we'll spot this thing in Vegas this January. Keep reading for a few more pics and screens.
