Best Reason Ever for iPhone Remote Control

In case you’re not sold on the idea of using an iOS or other mobile device as a universal remote control, here’s yet another reason – you know, like if you’re germophobic.

Take an IR dongle on the road when you travel, and you never have to touch the filthy remote provided by the hotel – which remotes are said to be caked with an average of 320 bacteria.

Scott Carmichael reports on gadling.com:

It doesn't matter how upscale your hotel is - the remote for your in-room TV is almost always a filthy non-responsive piece of junk. Research back in 2009 uncovered that most remotes are covered in sperm and urine - which is why I've traveled with a universal remote control for several years.

In particular, he likes the $30 Ri remote from Apptwee LLC. The IR emitter plugs into the headphone jack of your iPhone or other iOS device. Simply select the A/V product from Ri’s library of more than 225 popular brands, 72 device types, and 845 devices.

Now, if only Apptwee could figure out a way to keep germ-infested hotel bedspreads from touching your skin.

A Lower-Tech Way

1waysupply provides plastic bags (shown top right) to hotels that "staff and housekeeping can apply without problems." The bags, which can be stamped with the hotel's logo, offer extra protection from spills on controls and prevents having to replace remotes."

Plus, they are "earth friendly."