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Sony's $700 Linux-based Remote Control

Posted by timothy on from the for-that-much-money-it-had-better-$verb dept.

SlashdotMeNow points out a remote control to consider if money is no object: "The NAVITUS from Sony has a 64k colour touch-screen with tactile response, 32MB of RAM and a 200MHz processor. Looking at the photos it looks like a sexy little beast! It uses Linux as an OS and you can customise just about everything about it by linking it up to your PC. Hell, this thing is more powerful than my iPAQ. Useful for replacing your TV, DVD, sound system and other home entertainment system remotes, it can also control your lights and air conditioner. ... Just be careful using the Memory Stick slot - you don't want to get a virus on a device that controls your whole house!" Of course, that would have to be a Linux virus ...

3 of 290 comments (clear)

  1. If you want to know why it costs $700... by l0ungeb0y · · Score: 5, Informative

    I thought it was a little steep, but after reading this:

    "Tactile Response Display

    Most touch screens are lifeless and inert. It's often hard to know whether or not your command has even registered. The NAVITUS remote is dramatically different. Imagine an LCD screen that actually presses back against your fingertip to confirm each command. With TouchEngine(TM) Technology, you're operating with confidence."

    I realised that turning on the Playboy channel will never be the same again. And it runs Linux... sound like a geeks wet dream to me.

  2. Re:Way to pricey... by bedouin · · Score: 4, Informative

    I generally agree with you, but . . . this thing seems to control nearly every imaginable device one could have bought for their home entertainment system in the past 15 years.

    Tape decks, DAT machines, Laser Disc players, lighting, air conditioners, etc. I could see how this would be interesting for a real enthusiast. The only thing not covered here are reel to reels and turntables, and that's probably only because those don't have remotes. To control all this stuff with a traditional remote you'd need something the size of a keyboard.

  3. Philips already have a remote with wifi, web, EPG by blorg · · Score: 5, Informative

    I'm sure it can be hacked if you're good. Turn it into a nice little PDA and check TV listings from it!!

    The Philips iPronto TSi6400 actually does this - has 802.11b built-in and automatically updates a program guide on the remote. Also has a web browser. Linux-based OS too, I believe.