Time to take control [Consumer Tech]

The remote control seems to epitomise how we relax at home in the modern environment, so much that we take the humble little box of electronics for granted. Virtually all of the audio and video devices in the home can be controlled by remote. However, despite many efforts by home-automation enthusiasts, extending the remote realm beyond these entertainment devices has been less successful. The extension of remote control functionality throughout the average dwelling requires the engagement of a custom installation company, which will for a price enable all your white goods, brown goods, lights, curtains, and garage doors to be controlled by a single box of tricks. The modern reality of course is that we all have a handful of remotes jostling for position on our chair arms. The one drawback when we do finally slump down after a hard day's work, is the inevitable fumble down the side of the sofa for the right remote. Not only this, but they all look the same. And when you finally chance upon the right one, the complexity of modern electrical hardware means the buttons are numerous, tiny and covered in unfathomable iconography.