By Aaron Lee
Blumoo is a useful universal home entertainment “appcessory” that provides you with control of the audio and visual equipment already installed in your home. It’s a universal remote control and streaming device that pairs iOS mobile devices (including the Apple Watch) to existing home entertainment systems.
However, the Blumoo — which costs around US$80 — isn’t just a universal remote for more than 200,000 TVs, Blu-ray players, cable provider boxes, and home audio systems. It also allows users to stream music wirelessly from mobile devices. The 2.24 x 1.95 x 2.81 device uses a blend of Bluetooth, infrared, and an app-enabled iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch.
Besides being practical and easy to use, the Blumoo is relatively sturdy as it’s made of semi-translucent polycarbonate. It’s also small enough that you can stash it out of site in a cabinet if you wish. However, it’s a pretty good-looking gadget so you may wish to leave it on display for everyone to see.
Installing the free Blumoo app gives mobile devices control of the stereo system, even from outdoors or other rooms throughout the house. The app even provides show recommendations based upon your viewing history, as well as reminders for your favorite shows. With it your iOS device may become the only remote control you need.
The Blumoo supports five simultaneous mobile device connections. It’s makers provide open APIs and SDKs so developers can also make apps for use with the device.
