$249 Voice Controlled Remote
Logitech just released the Harmony Express universal voice remote control with Amazon Alexa built-in. Priced at $249, this remote aims to eliminate all your other remotes (up to 15 of them), while adding voice control to legacy equipment. An included IR mini-blaster extends control to components hidden in media cabinets.
Harmony Express is compatible with major cable and satellite TV providers and popular media streaming platforms. So you’ll be able to control television, cable box, gaming console, sound system and more, with voice commands that let you:
- Turn your entertainment devices on or off, even devices inside closed media cabinets
- Go straight to your favorite TV channels, whether by channel name or channel number
- Launch streaming apps, including Netflix or Amazon Prime
- Utilize popular Alexa features, so you can ask when TV programs are scheduled, hear the latest news, control smart devices around the home and more
Harmony Express adds a prominent Alexa button you can push to easily engage the voice service. Just press-and-ask to watch live TV, launch your favorite streaming apps or change the channel through Amazon Alexa. That means you do need an Amazon account, but don’t need an Amazon Echo.
Anything you already control via Alexa, like thermostats or smart lights, can also be controlled with Harmony Express. What’s unclear is if you already have an Amazon Echo, can it enable the same functionality without pressing the button.
Setup is handled via free Harmony Express mobile app from the App Store for iPhone users or Google Play for Android users. Once installed the smartphone app includes a remote finder, which triggers a tone on the remote to help locate it. Or, owners with existing Alexa devices can simply ask Alexa to find their lost Harmony Express. Never lose your remote again!
Since Harmony Express comes with a built-in rechargeable battery, there’s no need for replacement batteries. Just use the included USB cable to recharge at least once a month. Logitech claims one month of battery life between charges.
Price and Availability
The Logitech Harmony Express Universal Voice Remote launched April 16, 2019 in the U.S. for $249.99.
PN: 915-000321
