IOSPIRIT Remote Buddy Review
Anyone using AirPort Express to transmit iTunes music through stereo speakers will tell you what a wonderful experience it is. The ease and organization offered by putting all your music in one spot and then being able to play it anywhere in your home just can’t be beat. A downside with playing your computer music through your home stereo is that iTunes only allows you to control the music from the computer itself or via an IR remote that works only at a limited distance and must have line of sight. None of these options are helpful if you want to sit on the couch or in another room and control your music.
IOSPIRIT’s Remote Buddy solves this problem. This program not only does the job of allowing you to control your music on your iPhone but does a whole lot more. It provides functionality that will meet a homebody’s basic music needs as well as the traveling businessperson’s advanced needs to control his/her computer in presentation situations.
Music Remote Control
After setting up the software, I was absolutely thrilled with the look and how easy the interface was to use. The music controls offered the standard functions: next/previous track, pause/play and volume.
Other Remote Functions
Those that need to control a computer remotely and don’t want to shell out extra for a USB remote control will appreciate the other remote functions of Remote Buddy. (A network address is needed to do this.) Functionality includes the ability to control a variety of software applications including:
• Adobe reader
• Dvd player
• Firefox
• Front row
• iPhoto
• GarageBand
• iCal
• PowerPoint
• And many others!
The remote allows you to select files and use your iPhone as a trackpad and keyboard. If you want, you can choose to see your computer’s desktop on the iPhone. However, it’s tiny and the trackpad movements take some time to get used to so I would recommend practicing before getting in front of an audience. Remote buddy even has the ability to remotely control the iSight camera – could be helpful if you’re looking to spy on someone from another room. ☺
Setup
Setup is remarkably easy. You will need to install Remote Buddy software found on IOSPIRIT’s website). This site is full of helpful information including step-by-step setup instructions, videos, FAQs and other support information.
After you’ve configured the software on your computer, all you need to do is open Safari on your iPhone and point to the Bonjour URL address. (Don’t worry, the screenshots on the website show you where to find this.) That’s it - you’re ready to go!
I’ve only touched upon a few of Remote Buddy’s notable functions in this article. It is truly a powerful application that I believe many will benefit from. A free trial is available for 30 days and the full product can be purchased for 19.99 € (about $31 USD).