Unify4Life Turns BlackBerry into a Universal Remote Controller

The capabilities of any BlackBerry smartphone can now be enhanced to cover a much wider range of functions through Unify4Life. This solution transforms the handset into an ultimate universal remote controller. Basically, users can enjoy full management of their home entertainment environment on their smartphone, as they are provided with control over the home theatres and radio receivers, as well as on television sets.

Unify4Life has the AV|Shadow, which is able to communicate with a BlackBerry handset via CSR’s Bluetooth. At the same time, it is capable of connecting with other electrical equipment through infrared (IR) or through the use of IR Extenders.

The new solution is promoted as offering users the possibility to have direct control over a wide range of electronic devices. At the same time, BlackBerry owners can even stream music from their smartphone via the device's Bluetooth directly to an amplifier or receiver that could be placed at up to 30ft away.

Considering that the AV|Shadow can be placed into a central location, the device can be easily programmed as users are offered the possibility to download the remote application to their BlackBerry handset from their dedicated web account on the Unify4Life web site. The application provides them with wireless control over programmed devices.

A demonstration available over the Web shows how a BlackBerry smartphone can be used to remotely control other home entertainment devices. Moreover, according to the news on the Internet, the handset can also be used to control a PS3. The keyboard and trackball of the BlackBerry are capable of inputting text and allowing the user to move around; and the two devices seem to get along pretty well. In addition, the user interface of the application is reported to be a rather appealing one.

Those interested in the features of the application can have a look at how the BlackBerry makes use of it here.