What is the GEAR4 UnityRemote?

Lost your TV's remote control down the back of the sofa? You need never search for it again. The GEAR4 UnityRemote turns your iPhone or iPod touch into a universal remote control system for all your entertainment needs. It enables you to control multiple TVs, your DVD player, Blu-ray player or even home cinema system, all at once, via a simple-to-use interface. Select a TV channel, adjust the volume, sit back and press play; you don't even need to plug in a dongle or similar device, as it uses infrared and Bluetooth to pick up signals from the electronics equipment in your room.

Will it work on my phone?

The GEAR4 UnityRemote is compatible with second- and third-generation iPod touches, iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS and iPhone 4. It can sync with up to eight different Apple products, so every member of your household can use their own iPhone or iPod with it, though only one can be in control at any one time.

How do I use it?

First of all, you need to download the UnityApp (application), which is free at the Apple App Store; this will guide you through the set-up process. Place the GEAR4 UnityRemote in the room with the electronic devices you wish to control. It can pick up signals around 360 degrees, and works on standard AA batteries.

Select the item you wish to control using the graphics on your iPhone or iPod touch screen. You will see a screen listing, for example, 'Watch TV', 'Watch Movie' or 'Listen To Music', depending on the equipment the UnityRemote has detected in the room. Scroll down and select; you can click on the Unity button to go 'back' to a previous screen, or access the 'help' function, at any point. You can use swipe gestures to alter volume and change channels, and create 'actions' to control multiple items at the same time, such as turning on your TV, DVD player and audio system all at once, selecting the correct channel and starting a DVD - all at the touch of a single button.

The Setup Gestures function allows you to select how you control each device. For example, you can slide a finger left to right on your screen to change channel or adjust volume, so you don't have to even look at the screen, or use a series of easy-to-read buttons. The interface is fully customisable to suit your preferences.

How does it work?

The UnityRemote transmits and receives infrared and Bluetooth signals to communicate with other electronic devices. It is ready-programmed with an extensive database of compatible devices it can 'talk' to, though if your equipment is not listed, the UnityRemote can still pick up its signal, sync up with it and 'learn' how to control it.

The device will recognise anything new you buy which emits an infrared signal and it has been reported on technology review site Pocket Lint that it could be compatible with your iPad in the future.

John Lewis stocks the GEAR4 UnityRemote among a wide range of other electricals including iPods, televisions and laptops.