Amusing Web: VooMote One: The sleeve that turns your iPhone into a TV controller

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

VooMote One: The sleeve that turns your iPhone into a TV controller

Last updated at 3:07 PM on 27th July 2011

If you can't even be bothered to pick up the remote to change the channel, this could be for you.

A new gadget converts your iPhone into a universal TV controller that works on all major models of television.

The VooMote One is a sleeve that fits over your mobile and allows you to choose your programme or flip between functions - and make calls too.

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Handy: The VooMote One gadget converts your iPhone into a universal TV controller that works on all major models of television as well as other devices

The device also allows the user to 'group' together different appliances such as a DVD player and stereo so that you don't even have to reach for those controllers either.

A promotional video on YouTube for the VooMote shows a user pressing channel buttons and the red 'on' or 'off' button on what appears to be an iPhone.

There are also the volume controls which one would normally associate with a TV remote.

According to Berlin-based manufacturers Zero1.tv, the device works with wireless technology and captures more than 30,000 infrared cords and thousands of electronic devices.

In total, it is compatible with '574 TV brands, 995 Top Box/DVR brands, and 151 audio and CD brands' with a list of codes that is regularly being updated.

Remote killer? The device, which comes with a free app for iPhone, allows the user to control numerous devices in various rooms in the home

VooMote One living room page

VooMote One bluray player page

Once the room has been selected, the VooMote One prompts the user to choose a device (left), before providing the specific controls for that particular electronic gadget (right)

Zero1.tv says that the VooMote's star feature is the 'Room Control' function which allows you to group devices according to their location, e.g. the kitchen.

You can also create custom layouts which manage specific controls of each device so you can control many things with just touch of a button.

'VooMote One is the only like-product on the market right now that makes set up effortless, reduces clutter, and streamlines the control of all of your devices with your iPhone,' Zero1.tv said in a statement.

The VooMote, which also works on an iPod touch, comes with a free app that links up with the sleeve.

The hardware, however, is currently only available in the U.S. and costs $99 (£60), with UK pricing to be confirmed.