Remote Control

Updated Xbox Live app lets you control your console with your iPhone

Microsoft has rolled out an update for its My Xbox LIVE application  today, bringing the software to version 1.5. The update brings high-resolution images to Retina iPad users, and some cool new features to the iPhone.

The most notable addition is the ability for iPhone owners to use the app to control their Xbox 360 consoles. The functionality will allow them to control on-screen content (play, stop, etc.) right from their handsets...

Apple granted patent for magical television remote

An interesting patent grant surfaced in the United States Patent and Trademark Office's database this morning. Building upon a number of previously patented inventions, this latest filing describes an enhanced remote control that could include a touch-sensitive surface to control one or more on-screen objects...

Check out these awesome iPhone-controlled RC cars

There's no shortage of iPhone-controlled vehicles on the market these days. We've seen cars, helicopters, robots, and even tiny spheres that can be controlled with Apple's handset. But we've never seen anything look this good.

The folks over at iHelicopters.net, yes, the makers of the rocket-launching Cobra copter, just informed us that they've got a new lineup of iPhone-controlled RC cars out that we wouldn't want to miss. And they were right...

Interesting Apple steering wheel remote patent surfaces

PatentlyApple points to a number of newly-granted patents published today by the US Patent and Trademark Office with Apple's name on them. And out of the 20 or so filings, there's one particular invention that stands out.

The patent describes an in-vehicle remote control with what appears to be a clickwheel-esque interface. It attaches to the steering wheel and can control an iPod, iPhone or other device. Keep reading for more details...

AT&T unveils new iOS device-connected home automation service

Last night, AT&T unveiled a new home automation and security service called Digital Life. The carrier describes the service as one that will give users "unparalleled control and security of their home using any web-enabled device."

The Digital Life system is integrated into the home via Z-Wave, a popular wireless protocol, and can control a number of connected utilities including cameras, door locks, thermostats, window sensors, and appliances...

How to use a third-party remote to control your Apple TV

Although the Apple TV's remote control looks sleek, it leaves a lot to be desired. The tiny buttons on the awkward-shaped directional pad can make it difficult to browse through iTune's library of thousands of movies and TV shows.

As you know, you can easily replace the remote with your iPhone using Apple's Remote app. But did you know there's another option? You can control your Apple TV with a third-party remote. And it's actually fairly easy to setup...

The best iPad remote desktop solution

I've always been a relatively big fan of Screens — the beautifully designed iOS remote desktop app by Edovia.

Screens has always, and continues to be the most impressive looking remote desktop solution for the iPad; in fact, i'd say nothing comes close when it boils down to pure presentation. For that reason, I've always been very hesitant when it comes to trying anything else. I know, I tend to be a tad superficial when it comes to my apps.

Thankfully I didn't let Screens' beauty stop me from trying another highly touted remote desktop solution called Splashtop. Many of our readers and YouTube viewers have been on me about trying Splashtop for some time now, and I just recently took the plunge. I'm so glad I did...

Apple patent depicts iPhone as self-programming TV remote

While most inventions depicted in Apple's patents don't usually end up in consumer products, they do provide an interesting look into the company's R&D labs. Some are particularly entertaining when they fall in line with persistent rumors.

Such is the case with the new "Configurable Remote Control" patent, discovered this morning by PatentlyApple. The invention shows a method of using your iPhone as a self-programming universal TV remote...

Never forget your iPhone again with the Wireless Leash Plus

How many times has this happened to you? You're running late for school, work or another appointment. And about 5 minutes after you've left your house, you realize you've left your iPhone behind. Noooo!

Now for the rest of the day you'll be disconnected from the world. No text messaging, no Facebook, and worst of all — no iDB. But you know, none of this would have happened if you would've had the Wireless Leash Plus...

Use Your iOS Device to Control Your TV and More with the VooMote Zapper

The iOS accessory space has seen a number of universal remote control add-ons over the last few years. There's the Peel, and the Griffin Beacon — both of which allow you to control your entire entertainment center with your iOS device.

But now there's a new kid on the block, the VooMote Zapper. And unlike the aforementioned accessories, it doesn't require an external infrared receiver. The Zapper plugs directly into your device's 30-pin dock connector, and doesn't require batteries...

Patent Shows Apple Working On Universal Touchscreen TV Remote

As noted by 9to5Mac, the US Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) published an interesting patent application today with Apple's name on it.

The filing pertains to a universal touch screen controller, capable of controlling TV sets and a range of other devices, lending at least some credibility to the recent rumors we've heard that Apple has a connected television in the works...

Use Your iPhone to Control Appliances Without Breaking the Bank

There are several home automation solutions on the market right now that work with your iPhone. In conjunction with web-based control servers, you can use the handset to operate anything from your lights to your thermostat.

But price and complexity has always kept the technology out of the reach of the average consumer. So ZMote decided to come up with an easy to use, affordable solution. Introducing the Bluetooth Smart Cord....