Tag: remote

We Can’t Wait For Sony’s Shiny New E-Ink Remote to Arrive in India

A couple of months ago, Sony launched a crowd-funding platform, a la Kickstarter, for its own new products. Called First Flight, the platform is one of company’s attempts to get itself back on its feet by increasing profitability. The platform includes crowd-funded projects, along with allowing customers to directly buy or pre-order products developed by Sony workers.

The latest updates from Sony’s First Flight comes in the form of an e-ink device called ‘Huis’, pronounced as ‘house’, which is also the first project of the platform. It is a remote for your smart-home allowing you to control lights and remote controlled devices. How is it different from the many other such devices out there, you ask? To begin with, it is fully customizeable, is very low on power-demands and has support for IR, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

The remote works with television sets, music systems, lights, air conditioners and pretty much anything that is capable of communicating with a remote (barring any pets of the feline origin). Watch technology make your life so much easier as remotes for so many different gadgets get condensed into one with Sony Huis.

Though there is no word yet on when Huis would be made available globally, Sony has already begun taking orders for it in Japan. Currently it costs ¥27,950 or about Rs. 30,000.

Source

February 15, 2016
HTC Mini+ Launched
Alongside the HTC One Max HTC also launched a one of a kind accessory, The HTC Mini+ is in other words a phone for a phone, the device helps you to connect with your HTC smartphone and use it without even picking it up. The HTC Mini+ connects with the One max and other HTC phones and does tasks like, making calls, sending messages, it acts like a remote for your smartphone, and a remote for the television as well while receiving notifications from your main phone.

The Mini+ is like a Bluetooth headset in the shape of a phone. The device lets you take and place calls using your smartphone’s connection after pairing through NFC or Bluetooth. The device has a built in 320 mAh battery in which the company claims upto 9 hours of talktime and and 95 hours of Standby time for the HTC Mini+, the device also charges fairly quickly , fully charging in under 20 minutes.

This device is compatible with:
- HTC One Max (check out our hands on here)
- HTC One
- HTC One mini
- HTC Butterfly
- HTC Butterfly s
- HTC Desire 200
- HTC Desire 300
- HTC Desire 500
- HTC Desire 601
The HTC Mini+ has a 1.5 inch OLED screen with a resolution of 128 x 128 pixels, the tiny device measures 118.7 x 39.8 x 7.15 mm.
Stay tuned for a video.
October 14, 2013
HTC Mini Companion Device Coming To The UK With Added Functionality

With its tiny, low-resolution and non-touch-enabled screen with monochromatic icons, the HTC Mini could pass off as a feature phone. But HTC is not taking off in a new direction because the Mini is actually a phone add-on for your smartphone(accessory).

Introduced as an accessory for the HTC Butterfly earlier this year in China, It was assumed that the HTC Mini is meant to be able to do simple tasks like to make calls and check text messages, all without any need to take your smartphone out of your pocket. HTC calls it an “enhanced Bluetooth accessory” that can be used as a remote control while your smartphone is being charged or connected to a TV.

As per cnet asia the device is made of plastic with a brushed metal-like finish, the Mini is lightweight and just as sleek-looking. However, its plastic build doesn’t reflect the same premium and industrial feel of the One, but is more reminiscent of the Butterfly’s back cover.

HTC says this device can be connected to HTC devices with Bluetooth and NFC, the HTC Mini has remote capabilities, letting you take control of your smartphone from a distance of around 10m. For example, fire up the camera app on your HTC One and the Mini has the ability to capture photos remotely. This will be useful in reducing camera shake, in case you want to do a timed shot or timelapse video.

To view your photos and videos in the gallery, you can use presentation mode to move forward or backward. This presentation mode also works with Powerpoint slides in the pre-installed Office app

One would also be able to control the music with this device,Reject or Answer calls and if you have Sense TV set up on your One, you get basic volume and channel controls for your TV set.

In Singapore, the HTC Mini comes bundled with the One when you sign up for a two-year contract at some telecoms. It’s not sold separately as an accessory.

Now, if you think to use the Mini with non-HTC phones, you’re out of luck. While you would be able to pair it via Bluetooth, usage is limited to the headset function, so you will only be able to receive or reject calls. And since the HTC Mini doesn’t have a SIM card slot, it can’t work on its own.

[via]

August 9, 2013
Harman Kardon Releases new iPhone friendly Headphones: AE, BT, CL and NI(PR)
Harman Kardon has just released a whole new range of headphones that include five options: two sound-isolating in-ear models tailored specifically for iPhone use and three on-ear and over-ear styles – including a wireless Bluetooth® and noise-cancelling model.

The in-ear model NI ($99.95) (Rs. 5570)
- 9mm drivers
- Rectangular black housing – shaped like the back of an iPhone
- A three-button remote with a built-in microphone
- Three sizes of silicone sleeves
The in-ear model AE ($149.95) (Rs. 8355)
- Silver-toned aluminum casing
- Premium 9mm drivers optimized
- A three-button remote with a built-in microphone is included
- Foam sleeves are offered along with three sizes of silicone sleeves
The on-ear model CL ($199) (Rs. 11,085)
- Metal hinges
- Sand-blasted metal finish and rectangular ear cups
- 40mm drivers
- Detachable cables feature highly finished metal connectors
- Cables are made of a tightly woven fabric to enhance feel as well as durability and flexibility.
The over-ear model BT ($249) Bluetooth headphones (Rs. 13,871)
- Integrated microphone
- Built-in playback buttons
- Charged via the included USB cable, but also work in passive mode
- Battery lasts 12 hours
- Fabric-covered headphone cable for wired playback from an iPhone, iPod or iPad.
The over-ear model NC ($299, available late summer) noise-cancelling headphones (Rs. 16650)
- HARMAN’s proprietary digital active noise-cancelling technology
- Slow-retention foam is used in the ear pads
- A 30-hour battery life
- Recharged via the included USB cable
- Continue to play when the battery runs dry
- Fabric-covered detachable cable and a premium case.
[quote]These headphones are enhanced by several audio technologies developed by HARMAN yet also reflect the brand’s commitment to innovative industrial design, People who truly appreciate beautiful sound – whether it is on the go or in the living room – should not compromise when it comes to performance. These refined and distinctive headphones are built with the precision that has always defined Harman Kardon’s high-fidelity products.

-Dinesh Paliwal, Chairman, President and CEO of HARMAN.[/quote]

[toggle_box title=”Press Release” width=”Width of toggle box”]

HARMAN Brings Superior Sound, Comfort and Audio Innovation to New Line of Harman Kardon® Headphones

Modern design meets sophisticated acoustic performance in five Harman Kardon headphone models, priced from $99 to $299

For more information: HarmanKardon.com

STAMFORD, Conn. – HARMAN International Industries announced availability of a new line of Harman Kardon® headphones that deliver a performance destined to impress music lovers and longtime fans of the innovative and legendary audio brand. The Harman Kardon headphones include five options: two sound-isolating in-ear models tailored specifically for iPhone use and three on-ear and over-ear styles – including a wireless Bluetooth® and noise-cancelling model – for music lovers seeking a refined industrial design true to Harman Kardon’s rich acoustical heritage.

Harman Kardon, which introduced the world’s first stereo receiver in 1958, is synonymous with beautiful sound and attractive design. Pulling from a heritage of acoustic innovation, the Harman Kardon headphones incorporate optimized drivers that produce accurate bass even at low volumes, whereas many competing models today artificially exaggerate bass or treble. The distinctive rectangular shape of the in-ear, on-ear and over-ear headphones mirrors the back case of an iPhone, highlighting a design meant to pair with an iPhone, iPad or iPod.

“These headphones are enhanced by several audio technologies developed by HARMAN yet also reflect the brand’s commitment to innovative industrial design,” said Dinesh Paliwal, Chairman, President and CEO of HARMAN. “People who truly appreciate beautiful sound – whether it is on the go or in the living room – should not compromise when it comes to performance. These refined and distinctive headphones are built with the precision that has always defined Harman Kardon’s high-fidelity products.”

The headphones share several distinguishing features:

* The three on-ear/over-ear models are framed by a lightweight sand-blasted steel outer band that comes in two sizes so users can swap for the correct fit, while a leather inner band rests on the wearer’s head for comfort. Steel hinges accentuate the rugged feel of the headphone frame, which does not include plastic. Leather ear pads float in an enclosed steel frame, with only soft leather touching the listener’s ears. The detachable ear pads are connected by industrial-strength magnets to remove for cleaning or replacement. The headphones include 40mm drivers and have detachable cables. The headphones fold flat to slip easily into a briefcase or bag, a storage feature that will appeal to travelers. Each model includes a premium carrying case.

* Both in-ear styles were designed for passive noise cancellation so users clearly hear music and other audio content at lower volume levels – healthier for the ears. Multiple earphone sleeve options allow users to find the right fit while blocking exterior noise from disturbing the clarity of the audio content. Each model includes a three-button Apple-specified remote to make and receive phone calls while controlling volume and playback features.

Details of the five headphone models include:

* The in-ear model NI ($99.95) features 9mm drivers to provide a wide-dynamic range and high sound-pressure levels. This ultralight model has a rectangular black housing – shaped like the back of an iPhone – and a three-button remote with a built-in microphone for calls. Three sizes of silicone sleeves offer a comfortable fit and noise isolation.

* The in-ear model AE ($149.95) acoustically enhanced headphones isolate noise and are enclosed by a silver-toned aluminum casing for superior acoustic dampening to provide true low-frequency reproduction. The headphones include premium 9mm drivers optimized to work with the metal housing to deliver extended bass response. A three-button remote with a built-in microphone is included, while foam sleeves are offered along with three sizes of silicone sleeves.

* The on-ear model CL ($199) are defined by precision with metal hinges, a sand-blasted metal finish and rectangular ear cups that reflect the iPhone’s iconic design. The 40mm drivers are uniquely baffled to create an air flow that extends the low frequencies – bass – better than other models in their class. The detachable cables feature highly finished metal connectors, while the cables are made of a tightly woven fabric to enhance feel as well as durability and flexibility.

* The over-ear model BT ($249) Bluetooth headphones include an integrated microphone so users don’t have to remove them for a call. Built-in playback buttons sit along the side of one ear cup for easy music controls. These high-performance wireless headphones are charged via the included USB cable, but also work in passive mode. That means if the battery – which lasts 12 hours – is dead, users can attach the fabric-covered headphone cable for wired playback from an iPhone, iPod or iPad. Competitive Bluetooth headphones do not offer passive playback.

* The over-ear model NC ($299, available late summer) noise-cancelling headphones include HARMAN’s proprietary digital active noise-cancelling technology the company developed for acoustic installations in premium automobiles. Slow-retention foam is used in the ear pads to create a comfortable fit that also improves passive noise cancellation by creating an acoustic seal. The headphones have a 30-hour battery life and are recharged via the included USB cable. Unlike competing noise-cancelling headphones, the Harman Kardon headphones continue to play when the battery runs dry. The headphones come with a fabric-covered detachable cable and a premium case.

Availability

The Harman Kardon headphones are now available exclusively at Apple Retail Stores and Apple.com. For additional information, visit HarmanKardon.com.

[/toggle_box]
June 13, 2012
Samsung launches new remote with Siri like voice commands

Heard rumors of an Apple TV with Siri voice control, well Samsung’s not even waiting for that to launch as the company has already launched a new remote with voice activated functionality. The new remote is a Universal remote and can be used on all Samsung Televisions and Home Theater systems. It drops all flavor of buttons to be replaced with voice features.

While the remote will use a combination of Bluetooth and IR to connect to a range of existing and upcoming TVs, Samsung is yet to give out an official list of supported devices, or even if the remote will work cross brands. The remote can also be used for controlling a set-top box, Blu-ray Disc player, etc.

With the possibility of Apple taking the HDTV industry by storm major companies are not waiting around to see what the outcome is, as they did with the iPhone and iPad. All brands including Samsung, Sony, LG and Philips showed off Voice activated features in their displays at CES 2012.

[Link]

February 8, 2012
WIMM – The Wearable Android Module

The Wimm Module has been developed by Wimm Labs to be an extensible and customizable touchscreen module that can be incorporated into devices such as watches, remotes, and other modules that can be small enough to be integrated with wearable products.

The device sports a 1 inch square, full colour 160x160px capacitive touch screen display and its wifi and bluetooth ready versions also feature an accelerometer as well as a magnetometer. The devices run a modified version of the Android operating system and are compatible with most devices running Android, Blackberry or iOS.

Weighing only 22 g, the Wimm Modules are designed to be integrated into a wide range of products from watches and pendants to ‘Smart’ wallets. Possible applications include use as calendars and appointment books, pedometers, calorie counters and other health trackers, mobile payment solutions, music and video players, file storage, and universal remotes.

August 25, 2011
Acer Aspire Ethos

Acer’s new Ethos laptop series was designed from the ground up for entertainment and features a removable track pad that doubles up as a remote alongside powerful audio and video ready hardware.

The detachable track pad, is capable of controlling multimedia playback on the device from a distance, and features a sensor enabling it to be used either horizontally or vertically. The Aspire Ethos also features Acer’s Clear.Fi media sharing platform, enabling digital media stored on any Clear.Fi-ready device on the home network to be shared and accessed from any other.

The 8951G model of the Ethos boasts 5 built in Dolby speakers as well a a pair of Acer sub-woofers for surround-like sound and has a full HD 1920x1080p 18.4 inch display. The 5951G comes with 2 built in speakers and an Acer Bass Boost system along with a 15.6inch 1366×768 display.

The frame-less laptop utilizes Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 on top of Intel Core I Processors, alongside a Nvidia Geforce T500 graphics processor. The integrated power-smart long-life battery lasts over three times as long as conventional notebook batteries. A USB 3.0 port, multi-in-1 card reader, web-cam, and built-in microphone round out the hardware offerings of the device, while an instant on arcade key permits fast booting for movie, music, and photo playback. Mobile devices may be charged via USB even when the laptop itself is turned off.

July 11, 2011
Keyless Entry – Keys a Thing of the Past

The key has been one of mankind’s constant companions for ages. Now it is being swallowed by the cellphone. New technology lets phones unlock hotel, office and house doors. The same technology can also be used to provide key-less entry to your car and start it remotely as well. How it works is that the phone sends a data packet over the Internet to a converter box connected to a door or a deadbolt. Other systems use internal company networks, like General Motors’ OnStar system, to unlock car doors.

Since nearly everyone today has a cellphone, quite a few start-ups, lock companies and car manufacturers are getting on board to provide broad acceptance of the technology. Schlage, a major lock maker, markets a system that lets homeowners use their mobile phones to unlock their doors from miles away, and manage their home heating and air-conditioning, lights and security cameras.

The public is yet to come to terms with the new technology. It still does not feel safe to start a car with your cellphone. If you have a dead battery or no Internet connection, you might just end up stranded. Keys wont be gone for another few years still but in the future, we may just see a more refined version of this technology that addresses all these issues.

July 5, 2011