I Used The Best Universal Remote of 2024 - Goodbye Logitech! (YIO Remote)

[@BuzStringer]

Lose Control here! Remote Two: www.unfoldedcircle.com/ Software Roadmap: www.unfoldedcircle.com/software-roadmap SexyTech - www.youtube.com/@sexytech69 GitHub: github.com/unfoldedcircle Another Remote!: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bmHVhHmsj7Z1gZY&pp=ygUJc29mYWJhdG9u

[@RedLeo-pf9yo]

Very good looking remote.

I like Logitech because they have great database and support. Some time ago I had to add some device to my remote. I didn't have oryginał remote. The device also was unknown for Logitech database. But I wrote to support. They wrote me something like this: we don't have this model but it seems similar to other model. We added it to your account. Please update remote and tell us if it works. I tried, it won't work. Then they said: we added another model, please try now. And it worked. Then they added it to public database.

[@CxClips]

I have two Logitech Harmony remotes, their data base is insane! Something like 270,000 different devices.

[@davstin]

Logitech WAS amazing. Emphasis on the word WAS, they are out of the universal remote game. I have a 665 and I love it. It does everything under the sun so of course they stopped making it! Everything about that remote is perfect, programming, database of devices, ease of use you name it. WHY LOGITECH WHY!!!!

[@CxClips]

@@davstinthere’s still plenty of harmony remotes online to buy. Used ones are cheap, new ones a bit pricier. I bought 1 used and 1 new they both work perfectly. I ordered 2 new replacement batteries too. You actually only need the remote, not the charging base. If you buy the replacement batteries, they come with a wall charger.

[@davstin]

@@CxClips Yeah there are plenty of the 665 remotes which originally sold for $69 now on sale new for $283. and used for around $159 with no guarantees or returns. That sounds great.

[@jordanzish]

@@CxClips There are, and I picked up two Harmony Ones for myself and my mom, but the problem with the Harmonys is the software. If it were any other company, they would all be bricks by now, so I appreciate them sticking with it for so long, but the reality is that not only the database, but the actual functionality of the software, is all remote and it's all on Logitech's servers, and the clock is ticking. It'll can all go poof at any time :/

[@gwine9087]

450 Euros! That's insane!

[@fritsmolenaar05]

Compair it to the beoremote one and I know which I would get for the money 😅

[@Xajin]

I was thinking of something roundabout 200€ - more than double my initial expectation really is crazy

[@1nfiniteloop]

I agree, especially in AUD :) Its simply an amazing remote, but at that price, I'll juggle 3 remotes and a PS5 controller for now. Maybe if I get my own designer home and have inbuilt automation options on light switches etc I may go for this, but right now, too expensive.

[@Tanquen]

It's been like 20 years, but I'm still using my Phillips Pronto Pro TSU7000 and I'm pretty sure it was $600.

[@headerahelix]

​@@TanquenThings had less complex parts 20 years ago. A remote with a screen is going to get banged up, the software will become obsolete, and the built in battery (which can be replaced but let's face it most consumers won't) will die.

[@Green__one]

I'm so glad to see this option on the market. I have the Logitech Harmony Hub, and being that Logitech has discontinued all of their remotes, I really question how long I'll be able to keep it going. Every time I make a change to my setup, I pray that the logitech servers haven't been shut down yet, because it all seems to rely on those. Eventually I'll be needing to replace my remote. Knowing there are good, local, universal, options out there makes me sleep better at night!

[@BuzStringer]

This one does look good, Sofabaton U2 is good for basic setups. Since logitech moved out of the way is nice too see others rise up and fill the void.

[@markkempton4579]

I haven't been able to reactivate my Harmony and assumed it was b/c they no longer make them. I'm not paying $450 just to watch TV, however, I've gone back to the Roku remote and decided to dump the receiver in lieu of a sound bar and will pull out the bluray remote when needed. The funny thing is that the Harmony hub still works as I can tell Alexa to turn off the TV. I just can't control anything with the remote itself.

[@hurricane1951]

One thing that these remotes with only a few buttons completely miss the boat on is this: Their reliance on LCD screens means that you have to take your eyes off the screen and look down. If you wear eyeglasses that means you usually have to rummage around for your eyeglasses to see the correct setting to change, then remove them to resume watching. if you need glasses for both near and distance vision, then there's the added task of taking off glasses, switching to a different pair, then reversing the process. If the remote uses many mapped buttons, (Logitech Harmony 650/665 comes to mind), you quickly develop muscle memory for the location of different button and don't have to take your eyes off the screen. I agree this remote shows promise, but for me the lack of buttons is a dealbreaker.

[@PSYCHOV3N0M]

This uses OLED. Not LCD.

[@compudude]

@@PSYCHOV3N0M Accurate critique, but not a meaningful difference in terms of the actual complaint being made.

[@noelversten5891]

@hurricane1951 Progressive lenses FTW

[@allonisllc]

We agree. We added the most common buttons on the SmartRemote, and most all buttons can be programmed for Short / Long press to double the programmable functions each button can do. Completely customizable by the end user. And of course the touchscreen UI is also completely customizable. We include "out of the box" functionality to get going quickly. Then the end user can modify from there.

[@BrianSummers-py3ik]

Except it is missing the most important buttons for a termite to control a TV, that is the 0-9 buttons to select channels. With cable, satellite, and fiber systems offering hundreds if not thousands of channels now, an up/down button is not going to cut it. I’m not about to hit up/down 400-600 times on average to change between any two random channels that I might want to check to see what is on. Sure I can store a couple as a macro, but I have probably 100-150 that I will frequently watch and another 50-100 that I will occasionally watch. Remapping the other physical buttons is a non-starter because good luck teaching someone else “Oh, yeah, you need to do XYZ and the chicken dance while standing on one foot to be able to have it input a 0-9 key” to someone like say my parents or grandparents… I mean are you kidding me? This is why Logitech failed and shutdown their harmony remote devision. They removed the 0-9 keys from all the remotes that they had left on the market and then wondered why no one was buying them anymore, while thousands of potential customers where literally screaming at them at the top of their lungs that they wanted their remotes to have physical 0-9 buttons for the very reason I just pointed out.

[@MARK2580]

amazing device, I’m especially pleased that it doesn’t depend on any third-party Chinese servers where you have to register, which constantly forget your settings and work with a delay

[@cromulence]

Looks great but that price is a complete non-starter.

[@BuzStringer]

It is going to be that way for a lot of people, it is a serious investment, but a lot of people now have to replace their Harmony Elites which where $350 at launch. You should never have to replace this, and the parts are mostly wildly available so it's user serviceable. Maybe the price can come down in future, hopefully, but it is probably going to stay where it is for a while.

[@gabriellundmark]

You’re just not the target audience. I think it’s reasonable and about what I’ve paid for similar things, like the much more basic BeoRemote One.

[@bboi]

Yea you’re not the target audience. My Control4 remotes were $900+ a pop

[@Bambeakz]

@@bboi Wow so cool

[@infidelgaming1670]

Cool so youre essentially saying you have more money than common sense. 😂 ​@bboi

[@xharoboyx9280]

I've been watching this company build this remote for a couple of years . I would like to buy one. Unfortunately, I dont believe this remote will ever come to a full public release.

[@dingbatt]

I got this as a replacement for my Harmony Elite. It is definitely still a work in progress and I’m hoping it’s ready for prime time by the time my Elite fails. The one integration I had hoped would be at the forefront was one for Harmony. There is a Home Assistant integration for Harmony, so it’s obviously possible. But it would be great if the Remote 2 could talk directly to the Harmony Hub rather than R2->Home-Assistant->Harmony-Hub

[@BuzStringer]

agreed, work in progress is very accurate. hopefully in time it'll be able to do everything and you wont need the harmony hub, the hub still phones home every now then, so when logitech turn of the cloud service the hub goes too :(

[@soviut303]

One feature I love from my LG remote is the internal gyro that lets it behave like an on screen pointing device. Is this remote able to replicate this?

[@BuzStringer]

Similar to an air mouse? i think i has a gryo so it might be possible in the future, although i should just be a motion sensor. so maybe, but defiantly not for a long time :(

[@davideyres955]

It’s a shame that philips didn’t keep going with the pronto. The resistive touch screen isn’t as good as capacitive, but does work ok, the ui for the app is great giving me a lot more customisation that this does, it’s standby capacity is weeks, and it has macros I can program with a ton of customisations, in my opinion the pronto still stands up and I still use mine and reprogram it for new use cases like the latest oled and AV receivers. Just think what the pronto would be like now with wifi, Bluetooth, ir and a simple programming interface.

[@robertsteich7362]

I’m still using my TSU-9400. Bits and pieces are loose. But still fully functional, aside from the rotary buttons. Using Windows 7 via VMware on my Mac.

[@allonisllc]

Allonis's SmartRemote uses a capacitive touchscreen and the user interface design tool (myDesigner 6) you can design webpages that have PAN feature (like to slide a large floorplan across the small touchscreen user interface).

[@InterCity134]

As a remote that doesn’t have IR out directly from the end , it’s a non starter unfortunately. Using AA or AAA batteries would also be sorta a must have. A couch based use case means it needs to live a long time in its batteries and then allow quick full charge (fresh batteries in) and be IR capable as there is no table or electrical outlet anywhere where the couch is and from the AV console it cannot see the IR receivers if the various gear.

[@BuzStringer]

It does have IR in both the Remote and the Dock, The remote side isn't switched on yet, but will be in future update

[@mattriding5588]

@@BuzStringer How does it handle IR equipment that is hidden away in a media cabinet? My Harmopny handles that very well with the hub in the cabinet and external IR blasters connected outside the cabinet

[@BuzStringer]

There are 2 ports for external blasters, it also comes with 2 blasters. Because the dock is is also the charger, that does make a bit more tricky, you could either buy a second dock for the cabinet or run the extenders to the inside of the cabinet. no price on extra docks yet, probably wont see those until they ship to everyone on the reserve list

[@redsea866]

What kind of batteries does it use?

[@JoshFisher567]

How do Logitech remotes charge again?Pretty sure every model has a dock or some method of charging. At least the high-end models..

[@paul454]

A few comments regarding these new remotes. Maybe it's just me, but I like to be able to press buttons by feel. Something that, until the last models, Logitech was exceptional for. With a touch screen, you have to divert your eyes from what you are watching, and find what you want on the screen. This is a terrible trend for me. My favorite remote is still the Harmony One (I have a Harmony Elite, but always find myself going back to the One). Also, he IR database is a deal breaker for me. I have separates and some are not exactly common. Logitech had all of them in their database. They need to purchase a database from someone else if it's as bad as you say.

[@InterCity134]

One reason I’m still using a URC MX700 to this day with some used ones on hand for parts.

[@BuzStringer]

I totally get what you mean about missing the tactile feel of physical buttons, personally i think this has enough, of course I would happily take more, The trend towards touchscreens isn't for everyone (or me). having a touchscreens as an added bonus, sure i'll take it, but the main input should always be physical buttons. Also, the IR database limitation is a valid concern, but hope fully that will improve

[@BuzStringer]

That remote is beast, i love it.

[@GoofieNewfie]

100% agree. I hate my elite. my 890 was my best remote.

[@compudude]

Personally the Harmony 650 was the best they made, to my mind. Only a little on the screen, very tactile button layout, and uses AA batteries so I can just rotate in rechargables and never have to worry about keeping the remote on a charger somewhere. This one looks promising, but needs more buttons. (and a lower cost option, perhaps with a smaller screen?)

[@Loneman_OG]

Oooooh, it's _almost_ perfect; I'd want it to also do RF transmitting, oh, and be a third of the price! 😆

[@andymok7945]

Having support HA, is the big one for me. 2 years after I bought the Harmony, Logitech makes their announcement. Really need a dock with ethernet.

[@michaelbeckerman7532]

Did they even mention who makes it or what the model number is for it? Is there a company web site for the product yet? Looks seriously impressive!

[@JoshFisher567]

It's a Kickstarter. Google "remote two unfolded circle" and it will be the first link. They used to be named YIO (you're input/output) but everyone pronounced it differently so they changed it recently.

[@ballstadt]

So can I activate commands using the web interface, or with any voice assistants in the smart home? I love that I can turn on my theater downstairs and get everything powered up and warmed up 5 minutes before we go down to watch a movie by running the activity using the Harmony app, then use the physical remote for everything once we're down there.

[@BuzStringer]

yes and no. so you can't activate commands directly via the web interface yet (i'm sure that will come at some point) but there is a Home assistant plugin someone has made, so you can use HA to send commands, and /or add those commands to voice assistants via HA. you can also use the API to send commands if know what you are doing there.

[@ballstadt]

@@BuzStringer thanks. I went ahead and ordered this week. I’ll have to see what I can make it do for me. Thanks!

[@StephenAtt797]

does it have number buttons (physical or via LCD)? I must have the ability to access set-top box to turn to a channel (no cord cutting yet), otherwise the house will opt out.

[@BuzStringer]

you can add whatever you like to the screen, (including numbers) and have as many pages as you like. you can also add button on the screen to type a series of numbers for you via a macro :)

[@travissmith628]

449 euros / 490 usd 😮 At least the Logitechs only came in at around $350, and have been great, but I too worry about when the servers finally go offline. This company has the right idea, and yes, it's not a large market, but it's hard for me to justify 1/3 the price of my TV just for a remote. Yes it can control a lot of things, but most are just lookig for TV, Streaming Box, Cable/Sattelite, Audio, BlueRay control. Perhaps they can do a scaled down model at a lower price point?

[@deltics735]

Looks fantastic! The price is a bit eye-watering but the Logitech Harmony wasn’t exactly cheap, and this appears to do way more even than the Harmony. The long term support question is key: currently I’m having to maintain a Windows VM (we are a Mac household otherwise) just to run the Harmony software to make occasional tweaks to the remote setup. A real PITA. One question :Great to see “Activities”, but does it have a “Help” feature, like the Harmony? i.e. if not everything is turned on and set the way it is needed for an activity, a step by step fixer which turns things on and changes settings one by one and asks the user to confirm if that fixed the problem. That was a life saver in a household where not everyone is “tech savvy”.

[@keningilbert]

I see that it’s now the Remote 3. Is this an active project, since the Change Log and Road map both end in June 2024? Looks like new releases used to be monthly.

[@compudude]

Looks promising, but ouch, that price. I hope they release a lower end unit with longer battery and a LOT more physical buttons, including some that are less flat? I prefer remotes I can navigate mostly by touch, without having to look down and take my eyes off the screen. And a lower price would help. I'm not completely against it, maybe, someday, but I'm going to expect something pretty perfect (and *done*) at that price. If you want to compared to the Harmony Elite, you should at least... compare to the Harmony Elite. (Although I'm more satisfied with my Harmony 650... best design ever made... but dying buttons means I don't have much time left before I have to crack open my last spare.)

[@AttilaAsztalos]

Sofabaton U2

[@compudude]

@ It has some serious issues and shortcomings. (Especially for those who still have cable or satellite DVRs… several important buttons are missing) But I agree it’s the best alternative out there right now. (Sad as that is)

[@ardemus]

Nice, the remote for my Bryston SP2 pre/pro died and I need a replacement. The manual lists features/buttons and a corresponding 1 byte code (000 to 255). I don't know if there is a single standard set of 1 byte IR codes, or if there are universal remotes that I can set up using a numeric code for each button. However, with an API, a responsive developer, and a constantinly growing feature list, it seems like this could do it. I also really like their business ethics: no app, no tethering to a server or a monthly service, repairable hardware... good stuff.

[@droidx1191]

Glad to hear there is an actual remote in development. I supported via Kickstarter a different remote (OYO), which was a criminal scam and never existed.

[@cashnelson2306]

Five hundred dollars and still missing features like IR and reasonable battery life? Gotta pick one or the other lol

[@BumbleBeeTF]

Love the shirt!!! Great video. Thanks

[@adolfusadams4615]

1) By chance do you know when it would be generally available (meaning out of "Reserve" only)? 2) In the video you said parts can be replaced. Does this mean that they would be selling parts/replacement parts?

[@BuzStringer]

I don't have any exact dates, but I believe they have nearly all been shipped to the Kickstarter backers, then they'll contact people on the reserve list, then it'll be generally available. My guess is probably 4-6 months. But I have no idea how long that reserve list is. Yes! They will be selling parts, right now they are using them to build remotes, but I have seen them send replacement parts to people who managed to break their remotes somehow. :)

[@edko357]

When is the remote 3 available?

[@KevinMullarkey]

What's the battery power like? My Harmony hub remote battery only lasts a couple of days

[@TheHoboWithAShotgun]

11:00 my logitech harmoney elite still works fine to this day but this looks awsome but pricey. $500+ after taxes etc is a ton to pay for a remote.

[@Justin-yk3ox]

Does this work with Lutron Caseta? The price is on the higher side for a WIP product, but adjusted for inflation, and material quality vs the harmony elite, this is not unreasonable.

[@Wamfox]

The first thing I thought when I saw that home assistant UI 9:38 is that they need to make a smart home wall controller.

[@allonisllc]

Allonis's SmartRemote / myServer has the "HAGateway" driver to enable control over most any HomeAssistant device via myServer's custom user interfaces (SmartRemote / Smartphone / Tablet / PC - any browser equipped device).

[@RogerWilsonTodd]

Does it have an integrated microphone for voice commands?

[@thomvdvUnseen]

Yes, but doesnt work (yet)

[@cp1080]

Nice to see this is finally getting into the real world! I've been on the waitlist since May last year, and am looking forward to getting one when I finally get selected!

[@GoofieNewfie]

So did I hear that correctly? there is no ir in the remote itself? it is in the base? if so, won't work for me. Equipment is in another room, but I still need ir to control the tv's

[@BuzStringer]

It's there, but not switched on yet, a future firmware update will enable it, same with the bluetooth.

[@allonisllc]

The Allonis SmartRemote has IR built into it. You can also uses a GlobalCache IP2IR (highly recommended) or even the Harmony Hub IR blaster. All three work today with a huge database of supported devices.

[@robertsteich7362]

Whoa, have I found my Philips Pronto Pro replacement? She’s going on 15 years now.

[@ElCidPhysics90]

Have you reviewed the Alonis remote?

[@maf11300]

Only problem, you can't get one. Been on wait list forever. So went with the Sofabaton X1S. It is available now. Not as elegant but it works and is 1/3 the price

[@白金人生]

sofabaton只是一个影音遥控器，和smarthome几乎没有关系。

[@wicked5120]

I've had one reserved since August of 2022 (still waiting), so don't expect to just go out and order one for next day delivery . . .

[@atom6_]

Battery life is key for a remote - charging every day is a dealbreaker for me. I still have a harmony with hub and use its API, but looking for a universal remote that can last months.

[@BuzStringer]

I'd like to see improvements here too, i have some more videos coming about some other devices, and DIY-ing a local universal remote

[@NovusDundus]

I wouldn't mind this once it's more established and ESPECIALLY once the price drops. It looks near perfect. Right now though, it's insanely expensive. About $750 AUD.

[@BuzStringer]

yep a more polish and price drop would be great,

[@dotnetdevni]

Does it work with Epson ls800b and my future amp cinema 50

[@Kurt013]

It's extremely expensive. Also, with my (not perfect) Logitech Harmony, i can control my ISP box (Vodafone) but with this one, probably i don't think it's possible, nor i'm sure it will be. Also, the battery life is a major issue. Again, Logitech Harmony Elite is not perfect but it has an option do dim the screen when not in use, which saves battery, and it is always ready to work. And even dimming the screen instead of turning it off, the battery lasts a very good time. Maybe in 1 year or so (reminding that they took 2 or 3 years to start sending it to kickstarters), the price drops a bit and the sw will be more compatible and stable.

[@BuzStringer]

Waiting is valid choice, i'll be posting major updates, battery improvements etc when they happen.

[@cgott42]

Does this control Apple TV w/o IR?

[@BuzStringer]

I think so, i don't have an Apple TV, so i'll check and let you know

[@al201103]

Looks fantastic and just the kind of thing I would be interested in....except all my smart home gear is XiaoMi and they keep their ecosystem completely walled off. Such a shame, because although I only use remotes to turn the TV and AVR on and off, it would be lovely to have something like this to control everything. I've wanted a really well featured universal remote ever since I first saw the Cambridge one way back in the day. Not at all something that I NEED now, but would still love to have one!

[@yewfh-oz7in]

I would buy it today if it were for sale somewhere!

[@boedilllard5952]

I still have some Harmony's. I ordered spares as the Harmony buttons tend to wear out. I wish they'd consider coming back but with much better buttons. Kodi but no Plex? Is it both BT & IR?

[@iordish]

Does it have the option for a remote blaster hub like the Logitech Elite in order to control devices that use IR and are in cupboards ?

[@BuzStringer]

Yes, so the Dock is blaster and you add extenders or get additional docks.

[@iordish]

@@BuzStringer Thanks! So just to confirm how many extenders will the dock support and if I buy an additional dock does it simply sync with the 'main dock' ?

[@dotnetdevni]

Can it turn on home kit extension cords

[@cordlesswire]

would this work with caavo control center?

[@BuzStringer]

Probably... i would jump in the discord and ask the devs, right now, it might take some tinkering to get it to work

[@cordlesswire]

@@BuzStringer the only problem i can think of is the fact caavo has a companion app (for android tv or roku) one needs to install in order to use their remove with shield, roku devices, xbox… will check it out, although 450$ is too steep for me and our what, five devices and four smart lights, lol. it is tempting, even at that whopping price, ngl.

[@RedLeo-pf9yo]

Does it light up with any kind of movement, it needs to have that, because without that it’s a dealbreaker. Most of my rooms are way too dark to be looking for a light button.

[@cndam]

Does it do RF for come Bose systems? That's the only reason I'd need it.

[@ThePeterpan555]

so you prefer the remote 2 better or the RS90x?

[@thomokx1252]

When you are in the reserve “list” when will I receive an email to order it? Does this take weeks, months, years? I know there websites says priority based on first order first serve… and when does this thing really come available to the market???

[@MuhammadArshad92]

I can't even get this even if I wanted to as the reservation countries are severely limited 😢 Will it be opened to more countries once production stabilises?

[@sunnypandya3369]

Great video! I found it really informative too. I did like the breakdown of the different features. I did have a question though, how did you get your ps5, pc and Nintendo switch as apps/tiles on your nvidea shield? Do they launch the console? 😅 Thanks in advance

[@BuzStringer]

I have a video in the works about customizing the Shields interface, probably end of Feb. They do launch the the Console, The PS5 and PC buttons turn them on it uses home assistant in the background to do that. the N Switch doesn't let you turn it on, because Nintendo 😂

[@sunnypandya3369]

@BuzStringer thank you for the reply!! That sounds amazing!! I was interesting in doing something like this as it looks so clean 👌🏽. Looking forward to the vid when it comes out. 🙌🏽

[@wogfun]

This is the first I'm hearing of this project and I was super excited until I saw the whole video. IMO at this price there are a few things that are deal breakers. The brains on board the remote just seems like a poor decision, why battery power the hub. The remote charger is also the IR blaster? That's not handy for custom installs with devices in a media closet. Yeah you can add wired blasters but the charger should live near the users viewing position, which in my installs are very far from the AV closets. This could have been great, but for now I'm hanging on to my collection of Logitech Harmony Hubs.

[@TOONICE]

Were can you buy this

[@cceyxx]

Remotes with touch controls/screens are ridiculous. When I reach for a remote, it is to control something without looking at it. Defeats the purpose, hence why they shouldn’t even be called remotes.

[@hascon86]

how there is no app is plus like if company go away who keep the servers running and make sure web site is up ? app is not different then website apps is also connect server like web site is . am i wrong ? there need to be pay for domain too ...

[@palaemon]

Is it for sale yet?

[@BuzStringer]

not yet, they are still filling the orders on the wait list, anyone can join, once the wait list is they'll go on public sale. the list seems to be a way of controlling the amount of orders so they can keep up.

[@Navarre-i1j]

Amazing! A remote control that costs more than TWO 55" 4K TVs! What a great idea! Really, this sounds like a great idea, it's just not cost-effective.

[@Rob-rg4oe]

And within about 3 to 5 years the internal battery will have weakened and by the looks of it, isn't easily replecable. Nah..Having a couple of remotes is sometimes anoying, but even the remote on my 10 year old Panasonic TV is still working fine and is on it's second pair of AAA batteries.

[@BuzStringer]

I hate Internal batteries as well and it is a major issue. 5 years is generous for an internal battery, but they have said almost everything is user replaceable, I haven't tried a battery swap yet so I can't confirm how easy or difficult it is.

[@dimis187]

Needs backlit keys and a motion sensor for Wake on pickup... also a find my remote feature to make it beep when it's in the couch... then it will be almost perfect

[@edsavill8947]

This remote is a game changer! Excellent video - great humour too! Keep it up!

[@BuzStringer]

Thanks :) i'll keep trying

[@commandpost1]

Can I control a thermostat from this? Even if I have to set it up with HomeAssistant, that’s all I’ve wanted in a universal remote. 1 remote to do lights, thermostat, and TV

[@BuzStringer]

Yes, anything you can control in HA, you can control with this Via HA :) Honestly that's what makes it so good for me. Other remotes seem to do everything they can to stop you from talking to HA.

[@commandpost1]

@BuzStringer I just put down my email to reserve it, can’t wait!

[@Floris2207]

Any news on if Samsung is supported?

[@BuzStringer]

TVs and soundbar? Via IR yes. Smartthings? not yet, although you could run smartthings through homeassisant and control things that way. I use HTTP GET commands to change the HDMI input for my Samsung soundbar, which i route through Home assistant, then to the Remote 2

[@Yuseigachi]

Nice tutorial Buz, thank you. One question, can I program this Remote to control my tv tuner that has a bluetooth Remote?

[@JoshFisher567]

It does, it's I. The tech specs on the Kickstarter page. All the "brains" are in the remote and not the hub though. Connectivity WiFi 2.4 GHz Bluetooth 4.0 Ethernet

[@jajahuggins]

This reminds me of the NEEO remote (that was fantastic, and this resembles it) that was bought by Control4, and we couldn't use the remote anymore. I'm hesitant to get this for fear they will be sold to the highest bidder. I wonder if its the same team from NEEO doing this?

[@allonisllc]

It's my good understanding that the NEEO team is now working for Control4 (for the most part) and the YIO team is completely independent group.

[@RealBLAlley]

Slick device, and I hope they can get it finished. I've used Harmony remotes for a very long time, but I got tired of the complexity of the remotes and systems and simplified everything. I put together a home media server and transferred all of our physical media including how-to and fitness videos. That plays through our Rokus, along with our streaming subscriptions and even the OTA TV from the antenna, so I was able to reduce everything to a TV, Audio, and the Roku. We use Roku TVs with their original remotes for the Office and Craft Room/Office, which are also the computer monitors, and the Living Room and Master BR systems use SofaBaton R2s. They are simple, replicate the Roku remote, and are easy to program without having to dick around with an interface.

[@BuzStringer]

Pretty much exactly what i did, but with the NVIDIA Shield and Fire TVs instead. The Living room is a little more complicated because we have 3 Consoles and a Gaming PC in there.

[@jackpot9469]

@BuzStringer How large is the IR cone on the Remote Two ? If you ever used the Sofabaton U2 you know what I mean and have seen how unpractical it is to have a small IR cone for real usage (how come they didn't test/notice that before release is beyond me).

[@tams805]

Would it have harmed them to add a number grid?

[@Pugwash.]

I like the look of this. I'll be looking to buy when it's finished and can control my Kodi, which really should be difficult if my Home Assistant can do it? I have been a loyal Harmony customer for years so was gutted when they decided to end controller production.

[@BuzStringer]

Depending on what device you are using KODI on, when the bluetooth is switch on that should work without having to wait for dedicated KODI control, although KODI does make it very easy for 3rd party remotes to control it over the network, which would be better.

[@sparenohero]

I'm definity interested in this, but can it still work as a wand on LG OLED Tv's?

[@BuzStringer]

Sadly no, the hardware might be there, but nothing has been said about using it as wand or air mouse.

[@JoshFisher567]

Can you run home assistant scripts with this? It looked like you can't based on the HA forums but it looks like there is a feature request to add a button domain/option to allow you to map scripts but I wanted to verify. Thanks!

[@白金人生]

BESTJOY super remote + MQTT bridge, 可以完成这个，它可以把遥控器的按键映射到MQTT，连接到HASS，去映射操作。

[@JoshFisher567]

@@白金人生 Thanks! That's awesome because I already have a lot of stuff in ESPHome connect to MQTT by default, including lights and some camera's. I do wish I had heard some more chatter about this remote though. It really does look like my dream remote but it is flying under the radar and too expensive unless you are a heavy home assistant user. People aren't buying this because of the Android/iOS or other integrations that are out.

[@-iIIiiiiiIiiiiIIIiiIi-]

The future of remotes is: having a wireless coil charger built into the remote.

[@sebastianwild7895]

Is this remote control freely programmable? For example, for a pair of active KEF speakers? Unfortunately, their remote control is made of simple plastic with very limited quality features...not exactly adequate for the product...your product would be a great fit if it could be programmed for source selection, forward/backward, next song, last song, volume control, on/off. Some manufacturers in the hi-fi sector don't really care about a remote control. There is a lot of potential here.

[@Accuaro]

Can this control Phillips Hue lights?

[@cashnelson2306]

considering it’s literally in the thumbnail….

[@dranksinatraa]

When can I buy

[@KyleBevis-u7j]

Hey mate! I’m looking for a universal remote to control my parent’s TV set up. Would really appreciate some input. A few years ago I set them up with a Sony AV receiver that powers a 5.1 speaker system and receives from: an Apple TV 4k, a Sony Blu-ray player, and most importantly 🙃 their beloved Sky+HD box. The AV receiver then sends 1 feed to an LG oled. When I installed it all, I intended to set up a Logitech Harmony Elite for them too, to make it all work with one remote, then it was discontinued. Understandably, they now complain about having to juggle 5 remotes and remembering the sequence to turn everything on etc etc. At this point I’m willing to pay anything to get them off my back. Would this remote be a good fix? Would appreciate your thoughts 🙌

[@mjc0961]

Lost me at touch screen. One of the benefits of remotes is that they still use tactile buttons that work every time, instead of the inaccurate touch BS that has infected nearly every other product.

[@GugureSux]

But does it work with the OLD CRT televisions, VHS and Beta players and such? And I mean from like the 1980s and 90s? 8:30 well I guess that answers me.

[@V3ntilator]

I used Phone and Tablet as remotes for anything for many years. TV, Receiver, Kodi, Chromecast etc. The most fancy Remote i have on tablet were made by Yamaha and it's free.

[@enemdisk6628]

@@V3ntilator I hated that Yamaha apps tbh.

[@V3ntilator]

@@enemdisk6628 Denon makes by far the worst apps, and they are barebone when it comes to functions too. I know because i also own 2 x Denon Receivers with App support. I have 3 living rooms in my house and is why i have 3 receivers. I like Yamaha most. They stopped making these kind of receivers 2-3 years ago. Today these brands sadly uses cheap connectors, cheap speaker terminals etc. and even have less HDMI inputs.

[@akaVirtuoz]

is its possible to flash tasmota on this?)

[@oliverpolden]

I almost feel like buying this just to support the fact that it’s end user repairable.

[@Omaricon]

Wow. It sounds like they're taking all the right choices, the choices I wish more companies would do. I'll have to pick one up.

[@squared80]

The problem is the support, or current lack thereof. I need it to control 7 different things in my HT. And it can't.

[@BillBraskey-o1d]

I think the price is more than reasonable, especially considering the competition. The Allonis SmartRemote is going for $750 US and requires a separate server. The AVA Cinema Remote is going for $1300 US. The AVA looks gorgeous and is at the top of my wish list and is shipping now, but I haven't seen any solid reviews of it yet. The AVA is also only sold through custom integrators/installers, but I have found one that will sell it unlocked so I can set it up myself.

[@BuzStringer]

That sounds pretty cool, I haven't had the opportunity to test any integrated services. I've only really seen demos of control4, I get the need for them, if you don't want to do it yourself and have a support line, but they are too rich for my blood. But they do make really nice hardware, it's a shame it's not easy to buy separately, but I get it, the money isn't in the hardware for them. Come back and let us know how you got on with the AVA

[@jasonmcinnis454]

Would love to know the contact, so that I can buy one as well.

[@ChanseArrington]

Would love the contact too

[@Nutrafin-3D]

I've been waiting for a remote like this. (And probably will be waiting for a while more as I just now signed up for reserve) Included stationary hub, locally based software, physical buttons, backlighting, all the macros and such of harmony... And more as I have been building up on Home assistant

[@B.Ch3rry]

I still would like an app to use remotely when I’m away from home when looking through my security cameras…

[@enemdisk6628]

@@B.Ch3rry That is not what a remote does. This should your camera do.

[@B.Ch3rry]

@ Oh really??? I have the Harmony Logic Elite remote with Hub that allows me to control devices via the app remotely. This remote is merely an updated version of the disconnected Harmony Logic Remote.

[@PaulSinnema]

450 Euros, my goodness. Not in 450 years.

[@Halbmond]

I’m looking for a long-term replacement for my Harmony Elite for when it eventually stops working. I just looked at the website, and … the power button placement looks absolutely horrible. Also unsure about the ergonomics. But it definitely looks interesting, so I’ll keep an eye on it. Thanks! edit: also disappointing that for a price this high, it doesn’t have a hub like the Harmony Elite. Where do they want me to put the IR extenders!? The battery life is also very short. It’s great there’s finally an alternative on the horizon, but for now I think the Harmony Elite stays king

[@sjurursteinholm5368]

It does come with a docking and does the IR-signals for now. He explained it in the video. If you look at the specs on the website, you'll see where to hook them up.

[@kingkobra1956]

I had the Harmony Elite and it was a total nightmare period. I finally trashed it. I'm done with universal remotes because its easier just to pick up whatever remote you need and use it.

[@tadejsadar7033]

I also put it in the drawer. My biggest complaint is disastrous battery life and also docking station sometimes didnt want to start charging. Very dissapointed.

[@BuzStringer]

Yeah, This isn't for everyone, it's way too overkill if you just a few remotes, But if you want to control thing like lights or Mult-room audio, or multiple setups in different rooms. that's where it shine. My setup requires 3 different remotes to get to the right HDMI input (TV, HDMI Switch, Soundbar) i can't dealing with that.

[@SteveHilliarphotography]

Why is this the best when it's not actually available?

[@krisclem8290]

Would be nice to have an app with the webpage backend. That way if the app goes away the browser still works.

[@BuzStringer]

i'm sure that will come in time, it's pretty trivial to do that now. but I think that will come after the long list of bug fixes they have...

[@headerahelix]

lol I went to add to my cart the moment you said home assistant support but couldn't find it, then saw they're taking preorders for the three at €300 which seemed insane. Then I saw the price for the two's almost €500. I'm sorry, for that price I can get a smartphone that can do all this and more.

[@BuzStringer]

You’re right it is expensive, but the price is in line with other devices, like the Harmony Elite launched for $350 in 2015, So the 3 has serval improvement over the 2, and is cheaper, I have a video on the 3 coming soon. You could get something like a Galaxy A25 for $250, but there’s no physical buttons, and no IR, adding IR will probably cost about $50 with one of the Broadlink devices, and you have to setup everything yourself, which is fine, but will cost you some hours.

[@theskunkupine1809]

I desperately want this remote. Im guessing ~24 months away. But sounds like it will be worth it. The check is in the mail.

[@BuzStringer]

There is so much potential here, it's a very small team. and the more they sell the more of their time is used in support (their support is very good via Discord.) i'd say after 24 months this will be very polished. This year it should be feature complete.

[@xaytana]

I wish the display portion had a swipe keyboard. Nothing annoys me more than keyboards you have to key through with arrows, and it's even more annoying when streaming services use the block layout where alphabetical rows. While the remote itself probably isn't wide enough for even a decent phone-like keyboard, and thus having to be relegated to these annoying block-style keyboards, being able to swipe that layout would be nice, especially if it has a fully custom dictionary that only pulls from content naming for higher accuracy. Also, within the customization, is there _proper_ control for the suite of play buttons? Such as play-pause-stop and skip-fastforward/rewind-start/end? I find it so utterly annoying when remotes and players can't figure out how to do these correctly.

[@scytob]

without a wireless IR blaster that can sit in a closet where equipment is makes this a non-starter compared to the harmony hub

[@t3chnobrat502]

This will be an amazing replacement for everyone that Neeo left hanging.