URC MX-5000 Universal Remote Control

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The ability for technology to interface with humans via touch has long been the dream of product designers everywhere. With haptics interfaces being the new buzzword in tactile control, it’s no wonder that many remote control makers are seeking to integrate touch-sensitive screens and controls into their devices. The latest remote control by Universal Remote Control Inc. (URC), the MX-5000, claims a next-level haptics control that takes the entertainment manipulation environment to a new level.

The URC MX-5000 looks like your standard universal remote control. However, this one sports intelligent technology that uses touch feedback loops to manipulate the entertainment system components. This enables the user to interact with the device without having to stare at the remote every time they want to change the channel or activate the Blu-Ray player. As the first remote control to offer haptic technology, the MX-5000 confirms each touch screen button-push with a tactile vibration that the user feels. According to URC, every surface, contour and button of the MX-5000, as well as its screen size, has been designed to “feel right” when used with one hand.

The MX-5000, which features a 2.7-inch LCD color touch screen, is equipped with WiFi (B and G), Narrow Band RF and IR. Via any URC base station, the user can enjoy a complete A/V control experience that seamlessly integrates new digital media sources and content with traditional IR and RS-232 components. Dynamically linked via WiFi to a networked A/V system, the MX-5000 serves as a comprehensive and convenient dashboard for everything in the system. Because of its comprehensive two-way database, the MX-5000 can display the current status and browse media from the most popular IP-controlled components, such as PCs, servers, cameras, lighting, HVAC and networked A/V receivers.

The URC MX-5000 is not your typical remote. It is most likely targeted at high-end users and corporate boardrooms and given it’s expected $1,500 price tag, I wouldn’t expect it to find a home next to the televisions of most consumers. URC is expecting to being shipping the MX-5000 sometime in July and it will come with both a charging station and rechargeable battery