Ray Enterprises has begun taking pre-orders for its new Internet-connected Ray Super Remote, a $199 touch-screen device that can control TVs, cable boxes, DVRs, video game consoles, and Internet streaming players (Roku, Apple TV, et al).
Additionally, the control comes equipped with software that learns a viewer’s content preferences and will list programs suited to his / her interests.
“As we looked at ways to reimagine TV, it seemed like the remote control needed the most help,” says David Skokna, CEO of New York-based Ray Enterprises. “We think we have a big opportunity to do something magical.”
On paper, the Ray remote is able to control more than 200,000 devices. It can also run applications that will allow it to control other Internet-connected home appliances like, say, Google’s Nest thermostat.
Additionally, the device’s search and recommendation features are designed to eliminate spending time looking for content. Users simply tell the Ray what kinds of programming they enjoy, whether it’s comedy or horror, news or sports, etc., and the remote displays recommended programming on its 5-inch screen.
In terms of power, the Ray’s battery will last about 10 days before it needs to be re-charged, which is done via a special power station that doubles as a holding tray.
Other important specs: it stands 5.5 inches tall, is 2.5 inches wide, and has a depth of about 0.5 inches. The entire device weighs 6 ounces. It features a 1.0GHz dual-cure CPU and 8Gb of flash memory storage. There a 24-bit color display with 1120×480 resolution that’s protected vis-à-vis a scratch-resistant oleophobic coating.
In terms of its infrared capabilities, signals are sent via 7 transmitting LEDs, with 180-degree transmission, and a 33-foot operating distance.
While an interesting approach to consolidating electronics, Ray Enterprises is not the first one to come up with an idea like its Super Remote. Logitech and a few other electronics companies have been making universal remotes for years, though the technology used to control them is a bit dated by today’s standards. More recently, a couple of mobile apps have been developed that offer to turn a user’s smartphone or tablet into multipurpose remote controls. These apps are a bit buggy, and can be slow to work, which makes the Ray Super Remote a worthwhile “now” technology to have in one’s home.
If you’re interested in picking a Ray up, note that it is expected to be released either in May or June. For the time being, pre-order it at ray.co
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