18-Device Universal Remotes !!!!

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The straightforwardly-named One for All recently came out with two universal remote controls, both featuring a 2.2″ color display. The Xsight Colour URC 8602 and Xsight Touch 8603 are practically similar, right down to their ability to control up to 18 other devices, save for iPod-like touch controls on the latter model (yes, another victim of iPhone mania). The Touch also runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, while the Colour depends on 3 triple As.

Both variants’ small screens apparently preclude the need for a manual, since all relevant information will end up on-screen, updated as necessary. One For All also promises that their universal remotes do a good job of setting themselves up, with “region-specific” device auto-search.

The URC8602 is available from Comet Accessories for £99, while its touch-counterpart retails for £146.79 at Argos.

Pending the results of any hands-on review, the viability of spending a hundred pounds ($142) or more on a universal remote depends on the value you place on convenience. Personally, the potential savings in battery costs are huge, even if you opt for the Colour’s 3 AA setup over the Touch’s recharging cradle (pictured above).

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