Tuesday, May 20,2008 @ 2:50pm
ESPN unveils Wi-Fi capable TV remote
Sports channel ESPN today hoped to capitalize on Father's Day with the launch of The Ultimate Remote. The controller is designed to keep up to date on sports without interrupting a show and builds in 802.11g Wi-Fi that lets it access ESPN's scores, fantasy leagues, and other components of the website directly from a 2.2-inch LCD and controls built into the controller itself. It also doubles as a programmable universal remote that both receives pre-made codes over Wi-Fi and can learn macros by hand.
The Ultimate Remote also includes access to TV programming guides, weather and other non-sports data, and serves as a basic web browser. Rather than turn to disposable batteries, it charges its lithium-ion pack through USB and a chargeable cradle. Software onboard the remote can be setup without ever turning to a PC, ESPN says.
No definite release date is provided for the remote, though the device is available for pre-order from Amazon today for $300.
