Ricavision and Microsoft have a tight relationship (the latter used the former's Media Center computers way back years ago to do one of the first demos), which explains why they're both sticking it out with the SideShow technology. The VAVE100 remote, however, is both cool and confused.

The remote's targeted toward power users with the Windows SideShow function. If you've got a Vista MCE machine, you can stream Windows Gadgets to any SideShow device that will essentially give you a little screen to read/interact with Windows functions wirelessly. This is cool, and works fairly well on the remote. Where it starts to get fuzzy is the universal remote side of the issue.

Instead of making it just a SideShow remote that controls a Windows MCE machine, they made it a universal remote that's to take on universals like the Logitech Harmony line. The problem is that the VAVE100 isn't programmable via the PC, which means you can only set up devices on the remote itself.

It's great in theory, but the fact that it's not that strong of a universal remote makes it a device that's only great if you really like Vista SideShow. Ricavision's getting FCC approval now and will ship it when ready. [Ricavision]

One button gives you easy access to Vista Media Center devices ala TiVo or Xbox 360 controllers, and, like I said before, it's neat and I wish it were compatible with my current setup. You can preorder the new VAVE100 now for $274, which will apparently save you $25 off the price it will run when it hits streets this February. [product via engadget]

Like the Scribbler, the eChatter lasts for up to 16 hours and like its namesake, keeps you chatting by letting you write e-mails, send IMs, and check in on your Vista PC all from its 5-inch WQVGA LCD.

Lastly, there's the E-Reader, the only device with a grayscale screen, which in addition to reading digital documents, can also be loaded with Vista gadgets. There's no pricing on either of the devices, but we'll keep you updated as soon as we hear from Ricavision. – Louis Ramirez

Product Page

If you haven't been keeping up, SideShow is a Vista feature that when paired with the right "gadget" gives you the ability to read email, listen to music, or browse through photos from an external screen, like the 2.5 inch QVGA LCD on this remote. The advanced clicker also has the basic IR blaster and Bluetooth.

Before we tell you what we think, check the gallery below.

Okay, so this is a very quick first impression. (I've only spent a few hours with the remote.) It has a nice sturdy feel, the buttons are big and clickable and the screen is easy on the eyes. A number pad slides out from the bottom of the remote. It's cool, but feels flimsy. (Kinda like texting on a Sony Ericsson P910). Hopefully we'll get used to it with time. Next up, hooking it up with our Vista PC.

One thing we have to confirm. The IR blaster is rumored to not be universally programmable. Bad Ricavision!– Louis Ramirez

Product Page [Gizmodo]

Better than the Philips SideShow remote, this one atually displays color and has a 100-meter operating range. The fact that it has SideShow essentially lets people program applications for the remote, meaning it's quite extensible even compared with other learning remotes.

You'll be able to get one for yourselves in April for $199. It's pricey for just a remote, but for a remote that can see how much CPU's being used, read RSS, and show a fancy little Vista Gadget clock, it's pretty fair.

– Jason Chen

Product Page [Ricavision (Annoying music auto-starts) via i4u via Everything USB]

You know what's messed up? This makes me want to use Windows. Could Sideshow and a new wave of remotes save Vista from being Pogue-bait? I think it just might work.

–Brian Lam

More Vista remotes: now with SideShow [PVR Wire]