Here's a sexy bit of kit. Logitech's latest Harmony 1000 universal remote does the usual song and dance— an Irish Jig, really— that previous Harmony remotes do. We're talking about access to an online user-grown database with codes for 150k devices. But it also has a 3.5-inch touchscreen, control of RF devices through some extender box, and Z-Wave. Z-Wave, you know. No? It's a wireless home automation standard that can be used to control lights, door locks, window shades, and appliances. Or, think about it like this. With one click, you can turn on the DVD player, dim the lights, and start the laundry.

More photos after the jump.–Brian Lam

Logitech Harmony 1000 [Logitech]

4:52 AM on Tue Sep 12 2006
By Brian Lam
8,315 views
16 comments

Comments

AceDuceColdShift at 04:42 AM on 09/12/06
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Oddly enough, this remote looks like an imitation of Philip's RC9800I, which also has a touch screen, and WiFi functionality. I think the only difference is the logos, a missing "Activities" button on the Philips remote, and perhaps slightly differing dimensions. For shame, Logitech. You went from innovation with your diNovo keyboards to "Look, I'm a Chinese manufacturer, too!" copy-catting.
JasonCo at 05:54 AM on 09/12/06
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I have something like that...
It's called, "My Voice," and it activates, "My Girlfriend."

Laundry - check, Dishes - check...
strider_mt2k at 08:16 AM on 09/12/06
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Connectedness Index: 717
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That remote is awesome, and would be a great upgrade for my aging Sony "uber-remote" that required programming now long forgotten.
Stephen at 08:21 AM on 09/12/06
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I want one.
SharkJumper at 08:32 AM on 09/12/06
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OK. The little eHarmony ad link is confusing. Especially when the link to the product doesn't show up until after the jump.
miro at 08:33 AM on 09/12/06
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I just bought a Harmony 880 though the 1000 may be overkill for someone living in an apartment. Plus, this thing will probably be like $1000.
Paul D at 09:08 AM on 09/12/06
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I had a big ol' Sony that had a similar form factor.

I warn everybody that this type of remote is NOT good for channel surfing. If you're a habitual TV watcher, this remote will frustrate the crap out of you. Holding it in your hand and navigating the various channels on your cable or satellite system will be problematic.

It's really good for home theater applications, where you would only actually touch it every once in a while.

I'll stick with my Harmony 880.

Best. Remote. Ever.
mjpd1 at 09:24 AM on 09/12/06
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I've got a Sony RM-AV3000 that I programmed my lights into years ago via simple lightswitches with IR receivers built into them. But that remote is several years old. Might be time for an upgrade, and this looks nice!
Galley at 09:30 AM on 09/12/06
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I bet it's still bundled with some of the worst software ever!
Zadaz at 10:03 AM on 09/12/06
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Well the price is $499 but given how well my cheap 659 works, I just might spring for it when I get my new place. Just about everyone who has ever bought a Harmony remote knows exactly waht I'm taking about. They're what remotes should be.

Also a week on a charge is pretty excellent, compared with the other color Harmony remotes.

I also love the idea that it can replace RF remotes. Wonder if it can replace a Sonos remote though...
Monty at 10:40 AM on 09/12/06
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We have a similar device to this for our video conference room at the office where money was no object. Can control everything - lights, shades, all the devices - does it all with RF. Great stuff. Only catch was that it runs around 3 grand. If they can do it for $500, that is a heck of a deal.
Jon R. at 11:04 AM on 09/12/06
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Interesting enough, their Web site doesn't mention Z-Wave compatibility at all. The home automation aspect of this control is what would really make it interesting. Also, it doesn't look like the display can act as a min-browser or receive channel guides or anything else, so this isn't looking very special right now.
murdog at 02:37 AM on 09/13/06
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Does it come with a remote?
PapaSpurs at 05:17 AM on 09/13/06
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Seen it advertised for 350 Euros :o)
flags at 02:52 PM on 09/22/06
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Anyone heard of a replacement (upgrade) for the 880? It has been out well over a year already! If a new "tradtional" style remote is not upcoming, this may be the one to get!
smg007 at 12:59 AM on 11/28/06
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Looks too big! I think it would bother me to have to pick up a laptop every time I wanted to change the channel on my DirecTV. I might buy a 1000 if it had Internet capability on-screen and Zwave for automation. Think I'll stick with my trusty old 880 for now.