Logitech introduces universal remote with support for Alexa

Logitech has released the Harmony Express, a universal remote with support for voice assistant Alexa. In addition to this support, it is striking that the remote has relatively few buttons.

According to Logitech, the Express is the simplest universal remote from the Harmony product range to date. The device only has a few buttons for the most essential functions, such as volume, play, pause, and a menu and home button. The rest is controlled by the user via the blue illuminated button at the top, which activates Amazon’s voice assistant Alexa.

Users can use the Harmony Express to give voice commands such as ‘turn on the television’, ‘start Netflix’ or zap directly to a specific channel. The commands are then converted into an infrared signal by a separate module. Like the other Harmony devices, the device is compatible with TVs as well as game consoles, set-top boxes and sound systems. For now, the Harmony Express will only be available in the United States, where Logitech also guarantees compatibility with the major providers of cable and satellite TV. In practice, this means that users can also search for content, such as series and movies, via Alexa.

In America, the Harmony Express changes hands for $250. There is also a new universal remote control app to configure the gadget. The remote control can also be retrieved via that app and the speaker in the Express, should the thing disappear between the cushions of the sofa.

Some American media already received a test copy and wrote about their first findings on Tuesday. Engadget generally thinks the Express works fine, but also points out some flaws. For example, according to the tech site, there is some delay in the commands, because the infrared signals are redirected via a separate module. Furthermore, the Apple TV and Roku’s set-top box would only be partially supported.