It would appear that the age of the standalone remote control has just about had its day, as the smartphone seems to be taking its place. Which of course makes it easier for smartphone users as they can control all their gear from their handset. If you happen to own an iDevice, the Satechi ST-URB1 iPhone remote control might suit your needs.

The Satechi ST-URB1 iPhone remote control can transform your iPhone or Apple iPad into a universal multimedia remote control system, and all you do is connect the Satechi ST-URB1to the 3.5mm headphone jack, download the RemoteBean iOS application, and simply enter the activation code when prompted to do so.

The RemoteBean iOS app will then guide you through each room of your dwelling enabling the user to program almost any device that comes with a remote control, and the app contains a database of all major manufactures along with tens of thousands of products.

Furthermore if you happen to own a product that isn’t on the database the RemoteBean app lets you teach the application to control the unlisted device via the learning function adapter.

The Satechi ST-URB1 is compatible with the iPhone 3G, 3GS, iPhone 4, 4S, and iPhone 5 along with the iPad, iPad 2, iPad 3, iPad 4, and the iPad mini, and the iPod Touch.

With the RemoteBean app there is no need to learn a new universal remote interface, it controls devices with infrared capabilities, and a communications distance of up to 15 metres, and is a free app available to download from iTunes.

Satechi ST-URB1 iPhone remote control is available to purchase from the Satechi website, and usually commands a price tag of $39.99, but currently is being offered for $24.99.