Walt Mossberg reviewed the Peel in today's issue of the Wall Street Journal , a device that turns the iPhone into a universal remote control via a WiFi and a Zigbee-connected infrared blaster. One advantage to this approach is there is no hardware additions to the actual iPhone or iTouch. This device will be available on the Apple Store March 8th.
The Peel isn't the only approach to making a better remote, however. We had a chance to take a look at the Voomote One from Zero1.tv. The Voomote One is a hardware add-on that integrates an IR emitter, turning an iPod Touch or iPhone into a universal remote control. Although we saw a working model at CES 2011, it appears as if it is still in pre-order mode, based on their web site.
It is the associated software applications that will give these hardware accessories the edge over traditional remote controls. For instance, the Peel's first product was a no-cost app that helps viewers discover and find preferred TV programs. Devices like the Peel and the Voomote One promise to simplify the customer experience and are the kind of change that was the topic of many of the conversations at this week's Over-the-Top TV/Video Conference.