4. Competitive Landscape
As remote controls have evolved, four basic categories have emerged. Here is a look at the
categories, distinctions, key players, and pros and cons of each type:
Category Popular
Brands
Pros
Cons
Dedicated
component-
specific
remotes
All electronic
remotes
•
Buttons reflect the specific
functions of the device it
comes with
•
Inexpensive (comes with
components)
•
Many components equals
many remotes; living room
clutter
•
Not programmable
Standard
universal
remote
controls
•
Kameleon
•
Can fulfill most functions of
several component remotes
•
Difficult to find the right codes
•
Many lack widespread
compatibility
•
Inability to truly control all
important functions – users end
up reaching for individual
remotes
•
Rely on component database
on embedded chip, which
becomes obsolete; no way to
update with new components
•
User needs to press an
elaborate sequence of buttons to
launch any Activity
Macro-based,
programmable
remotes with
touch screens
•
Phillips
•
Sony
•
Universal
Electronics
•
Home
Theater Master
MX
•
Powerful, complete control
of entertainment systems
•
Include one-touch Activity
buttons on touch screens that
send sequence of commands
•
Expensive
•
Programmed by a professional;
a change or addition in the
entertainment system would
require a house call
•
Rely on limited component
database on embedded chip; no
easy way to update with new
components
Advanced
universal
remotes
•
Harmony
•
Powerful, complete control
of entertainment systems
•
Include one-touch Activity
buttons that send sequence of
commands
•
USB programmable by user;
easy to add another
component and update;
simple to program buttons
•
Internet community helps
online database of
components remain the most
thorough and current in the
industry
•
Why didn’t I think of this?
The Logitech Harmony 880 Remote Reviewer’s Guide
Summer 2005
Page 12
Summary of Contents for Harmony 880 Guide
Page 1: ......
