ESPN Branded Remote? Better than Harmony?

[jcrandall]

Here is something that caught my eye at CES. It's a high end remote that features on screen guide (on remote screen) using wifi. Otherwise, functions much like a harmony.

The neat thing is that they are working to co-brand the remote with partners. The demo they showed is ESPN branded

Take a look at the pics:

#1 is the remote with a general screen.
#2 is the remote with the EPG on (note it has an EPG button (on remote) and an Guide button (on TV)

#3&4 Are pics of their brochure. Sorry - no scanner with me, hopefully you can read it ok.

The guy I spoke with is the VP of software development for the remote developer. Claimed the retail would be between $200-$299 depending on parternership, etc.

[jwfgeol]

From a marketing standpoint, I think it's an excellent idea for a television company to have a branded remote. I'm sure they could offer specific features tailored to the ESPN sports fan.

[jpn]

From a marketing standpoint, I think it's an excellent idea for a television company to have a branded remote. I'm sure they could offer specific features tailored to the ESPN sports fan.

Sure, it's a great idea. I just wonder how much of the espn-crazed market segment would be willing to cough-up $200+ for any remote. I know a bunch of real sports nuts, they watch nothing but sports regardless of the channel. Most of them lack HD service, they're not interested in any remote beyond what cable/satellite provide with the equipment.

[jpn]

Nice website... unfortunately lacking some important tech specs. For instance it clearly states that it's got auto wifi detection, but fails to say whether it supports any security or encryption. I've been known to buy remotes in the $200 price range, but I'm not going to do it if it means opening my wireless to the neighbors.

[mojosat]

it looks like my harmony 550 raped a football and spit this thing out....ugly

[jcrandall]

ha! I love that comparison!

I thought the wifi was the intersting part.

[mojosat]

that is kinda cool.. As often as I make changes to my setup though I like the harmony software, how would the remote know if I swapped dvd players or moved the 360 to the bedroom and replaced it with the ps3?.... Did not read anywhere if this had a usb port or not.

[mojosat]

the sd card with the wifi transmitter is one of the coolest gizmos this year I think..

[jcrandall]

Yes, it has a usb port as well. Very close to a harmony with a seperate guide done via wifi.

[Andrewwski]

Another piece of junk from Logitech.