We live in a hyperconnected age. Almost all our activities are governed by technology and the different electronic devices that make our lives easier. One of the big problems we face is the number of remote controls that we accumulate. It is a hassle to switch between one and the other, since we have as many controls as devices in our hands. Today we want to present you a solution to this chaos: the universal remote control
Universal remote control: what is it and how does it work?
The universal remote control is an invention that is already years old, but that had not gained as much importance as it does today. A few decades ago, the universal remote was used mainly in televisions, regardless of their brand, and in video players (VHS, DVD and Blu-Ray). Some were even capable of synchronizing with the air conditioning.
These controls became obsolete like so many other devices that were indispensable at the time. But the universal controls did not disappear, as did the VHS or BETA players, to name a few, but they evolved and adapted to new technologies. Thus, today, it is possible to get a universal remote control that not only controls televisions and players, but also game consoles, streaming services and even computers and tablets.
But how do these universal remotes work? How did they achieve that the same device is capable of turning on a television or an air conditioner and also the console? We find it incredibly difficult, but the task is quite simple. These controls work through infrared codes called IR. Yes, they are those famous little red lights that turn on or off on televisions and other electronic gadgets. The controls can work in 2 equally amazing ways. On the one hand , there are controls that have a large database where they store the control codes of a good number of devices; On the other hand, we find controls that are capable of learning the IR codes of the original control of the device that you want to control.
Characteristics of a good universal remote control
The most important thing is compatibility. You must find a remote that is capable of controlling all the devices you have at home and that you want to synchronize. There are controls capable of pairing 2 devices or 3 or 4 and up to 15 simultaneously. You should not only look at the number of devices but also at the brand of these devices.
Another factor to take into account when choosing a controller is the type of programming. If technology is not your thing, we recommend getting a control that is programmed automatically or includes the IR code learning function. If you are a handyman, then you can buy a cheap remote to program all the devices you want one by one. Yes, be patient.
The keyboard and the screen are also elements to highlight in a universal remote control. What sets universal remote controls (another name by which they are known) apart is their sheer size. And it is that they are equipped with many keys and all of these are large and visible; Most of the time, the keyboard has a backlight, which makes it easier to use. As for the screen, you will be surprised to know that there are controls with a touch screen that works intuitively, but some only have an LCD screen.
Did you know that today’s universal remotes work with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth? We have also been surprised to learn that the main objective of this technology is to synchronize with telephones and computers in order to carry out the programming of all the devices in the home. And it is that this is no longer limited to the entertainment system but also to the lighting of the house, the boiler, the refrigerator and a long etcetera. The vast majority of today’s controls include a USB port to allow equipment updates and some even include power cables to forget about the annoying battery changes and unnecessary hits that we have all ever given to the control.
Smart Control 8 controller (UCR7980)
A best-selling leader when it comes to controlling devices is the Smart Control 8 from One For All. One For All is a pioneer in this type of technology and this super command could not be for less. With it you can handle any brand of televisions, decoders, video players, consoles, streamers and also audio devices. The best thing is that you can do the programming from a very intuitive app. With Smart Control 8 you can manage up to 8 different devices. Are you buying a new TV? the new PlayStation 5? Don’t worry, the remote is kept updated so that everything runs smoothly and you don’t have to be programming every so often.
It has happened to all of us that the control is lost between the cushions of the sofa. But that does not happen with the Smart Control 8. You can activate a special sound from the app on your phone that will make the remote emit a beep in case of loss. Of course, with this powerful remote you can comfortably browse Netflix, Android TV, Movistar Plus, HBO, Prime Video and all your trusted applications in just one click.
The best offer we have found to buy the Smart Control 8
Logitech Harmony Elite 950 Controller
Logitech couldn’t be left behind in the race to control home electronics. Equipped with a very effective and intuitive color touch screen, this remote control allows you to add up to 15 different devices and, in addition, it has a movement and vibration detection system. With the Logitech universal remote control you can also control home automation devices such as thermostats, locks and even program the blinds to go up by themselves at a certain time in the morning. Do you have a date at home and want atmosphere? The remote will allow you to lower the lights in a single click.
This remote also works with an application for mobile and tablet, either iOS or Android, so you can turn your smartphone into a small universal remote. This is possible thanks to Harmony Hub , a function capable of transmitting the signals of the application or the remote to the devices (TVs, players, etc.), without the need to point directly at the infrared light. You can even control the devices while you are away from home.
