Use iPads and iPhones as Remote Controls with Logitech Harmony Link

Logitech completed its latest accessory for Apple's products, one that is meant as a sort of linking device between one's TV and an iOS-loaded electronic, like iPhones or iPads.

The Logitech Harmony Link is the newest gadget to leave the company's labs and head towards Apple's camp.

Though the latter's portable devices already have a whole bunch of uses, Logitech decided to add one more, or refine a functionality whose potential hadn't been tapped into fully.

The Harmony Link is a small item which is meant to stay next to a TV and media devices, there to relay whatever signals an iPhone or iPad sends.

For the latter two, Logitech invented the Harmony Link App, which turns the iPad and/or iPhone into complete remote controls, though it is more than that.

Activity-based and device-based control is present, allowing the Harmony Link to automatically switch devices to the right settings, should one choose “Watch a Movie” or “Listen to Music”, for instance.

Personalized schedules of shows can also be browsed, as can channels and genres themselves.

“Logitech Harmony Link extends our vision of removing barriers between people and their entertainment by replacing the clutter and confusion of multiple remotes and different program guides with a single intuitive touch interface,” said Ashish Arora, vice president and general manager of Logitech’s Digital Home Group.

“Our research revealed that many iPad owners are using their iPad on the sofa while watching TV, many of them seeking ways to find out what shows are on. We set out to make this experience easier. Using Logitech Harmony Link and the Harmony Link App, iPad users can browse for what is on television, and with one touch of “watch now” icon next to the show of their choice, they can automatically turn on their TV and other electronics, and tune directly to the show they want to watch.”

Set to start shipping in the US next month (October 2011), the Logitech Harmony Link will be priced at $99.99 (about 73 Euro). The App should be up for free download around the same time, through iTunes and Android market (the Link can work on Android OS devices as well)..