Caavo-- the startup founded by the developers of the Sling box-- is back with another stab at a universal remote-media hub combo. Dubbed the Control Center, it promises to manage all content across live TV, DVR, streaming services and the web.
Launched back in 2017, the first Caavo STB could control no less than 8 different devices at once, together with popular streaming services. The 2018 Control Center has similar, if somewhat stripped down, capabilities. For instance it lacks the IR-over-HDMI adapter for IR blasters, while the number of HDMI inputs is down from x8 to x4. Also gone is the wood paneling, replaced with a simple black facade.
The driver delivers control over the DTV tuner and onboard DirecTV interface of Samsung 4K UHD TVs, in addition to direct one-button access to streaming sources such as Hulu and Netflix on the displays. Users can control the TVs via RTI interface of choice, with feedback on volume levels, programming and more.
Crestron announces Josh.ai-- a provider of "luxury" voice control-- is an official Crestron integration partner, allowing installers to easily incorporate the Josh Micro device and app as part of a Crestron smart home.
“We are committed to helping dealers deliver an outstanding experience to every customer,” the company says. “The HR30 remote does just that by providing instant and intuitive control of the ELAN system – media, lighting, climate, audio, video and more. Control has never been easier for the homeowner.”
The MRX-30 has a quad-core processor while the MRX-15 had a dual-core option. Both deliver powerful automation and control for residential and commercial installations, with instant two-way communication with Total Control products and compatible 3rd party devices. Both offer IP, IR, RS232, 12V trigger, relay and sensor communication for robust integration and superior performances.
The release deeply integrates KNX in the Control4 ecosystem, with 100 products covering lighting, HVAC, blinds and rollers, keypads, frames and bus management. A new Control4 KNX Network driver, supported in the latest Control4 OS release, natively connects to existing KNX devices within the home without need for 3rd party integration, enabling interoperability with the entire Control4 ecosystem, as well as support for Amazon Alexa voice control and over 12000 other connected products.
The Cloud Remote for PS4 automatically detects all AV hardware connected to the PS4, including the TV, projector, amplifier or speaker. To do so it uses the cloud, as built into the PDP Cloud Remote app. While not as versatile as anything from the likes of URC or Crestron, it does allow for basic functionality, as well as control of streaming services such as Netflix.
