Philips unveils new remote controls supporting gestures and voice input

When it comes time to get control over numerous components within your home theater system, there are a number of universal remote controls to choose from. Some the most popular come from Logitech, such as the Harmony Touch and others. Philips has announced some new remote control designs from its Philips Home Control division at IBC 2013.Philips says that its two new remote control designs are part of their off-the-shelf portfolio for OEMs and MSOs. What that means is rather than being universal remote designs like the ones Logitech is famous for, these remote may turn up with other manufacturers brands on them for controlling various TVs right out the box.

One of the advanced remote controls is called the Surf. This remote is compact and has an industrial design that Philips says will set a new benchmark in the market. The remote supports a range of wireless solutions and has advanced features, including touch control for navigation, motion control for gaming, and voice input search. This remote is aimed at smart TVs.

The other new remote control is called the Argento and it promises high-end design along with intuitive control capability. This appears to be a much more basic remote than the Surf with the Argento promising an ergonomic design with normal keys and a touchpad. Philips is offering no details on which TV manufacturers will be adopting these remotes at this time.

SOURCE: Philips