The $US100 Harmony Link is not unlike the Peel iPhone remote that came out earlier this year. At its core, the Harmony Linki is a hub that works as a middle man between your Android/iOS device and your TV/stereo/Blu-ray player. The Harmony Link takes the Wi-Fi signal from its control app and turns it into an beam that it blasts at the component you’re attempting to control.
When I saw a demo of the Link in action, it worked pretty well. Placed on a shelf below the TV and next to the components, the multi-directional IR blaster built inside the hub could target and control components no problem. Logitech still included jacks for the more traditional single device blaster should there be any control issues.
As for the app, Logitech, like Peel, is moving away from channel surfing using up/down controls or program guides. Instead, they’ve built an app centered around visuals that emphasises what’s on TV right now. That’s not to say you can’t find your way to channels using more traditional methods, but it’s not the focus here.
There are already some devices (Apple TV, Google TV, Roku) that use smartphones and tablets to communicate directly with a device over wi-fi. The Harmony Link is a glimpse at the future when all devices will function as such. Even if the Harmony Link didn’t seem quite as snappy as just pointing an orthodox remote at a device, it definitely proves there are better ways to control your television than what you’re doing now. [Logitech]
EckyThump
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 8:39 AM“Logitech understands that in the age of the of Wi-Fi and touchscreens, remote controls are heading the way of the Dodo”
News to me! I don’t see remotes going out of fashion until they develop a mind chip!
glennc
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 9:26 AMreplaced by tablets is what the article means.
for remote experts, logitech are quite late to the party.
Ash
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 9:32 AMEither mind control or gesture control (as in, Kinect?) for TV’s which I see as being a more realistic/viable option.
luke
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 9:43 AMbluetooth support for ps3?
John
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 1:07 PMLooking at web page, I think you need to buy the adaptor to control a PS3, although that’s not clearly stated. Bit of a deal-breaker for me.
Also, can you use it for Freeview or Foxtel in Australia, or is the app only really set up for the US?
Stew
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 11:44 AMI still prefer a traditional remote (or PS3 bluetooth remote) over a phone/tablet running an app. No need to wake a standard remote from standby, unlock it & wait for WiFi to come out of sleep mode.
Remotes generally withstand being knocked onto the floor better. And what happens if you receive a call and have to pause what you’re watching using your phone app before answering the call?
Still, neat idea heading in the right direction I guess.
I'm_a_PC
Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 1:43 PM+1
BennyB
Friday, September 23, 2011 at 8:53 AMI have a pair of Tabs that don’t get much use, cost $100 each. perfect application, assuming the Wifi link is solid and comms is quick.
I think picking a position is still going to be difficult in a normal entertainment unit, multi direction also means potential reflection issues and placement fun.
john
Friday, November 25, 2011 at 11:57 AMwhere can i order or buy?
Pewit
Thursday, December 22, 2011 at 4:44 PMI already have an IR repeater which takes the signal from the Logitech Harmony 1100 to the AV cabinet but I can see this being useful as I tend to carry my iPhone more than the remote.
However, the Harmony Link is not available in Australia yet and there’s no date for it – probably because the App includes a Programme Guide and I suspect they have difficulties licencing the data for Australia given the size of the market.