This process effectively bridged two input methods for controlling the devices, where the keyboard or mobile app could be used separately or in tandem. It could also configure devices that didn’t have defined presets, like streaming boxes and sticks, with a little added info from us that smoothed the way forward. We quickly forgot about this distinction when going through the app’s excellent step-by-step instructions, which included presets for specific types of devices, like a TV, receiver, Blu-ray player, game console, and slots for others, too. In this rig, your smartphone or tablet is the remote. The Harmony app plays almost as big a role as the keyboard because there is no physical remote in the equation. That might come off as a drawback, but it makes sense in the context of the hardware and software combination at work here. In fact, this app is the only means of setup. Unlike previous Harmony remotes that have to be connected to a computer for setup, the Smart Keyboard needs only the free Harmony app on iOS or Android. Only one blaster cable is included – additional cables cost $10. The blaster plugs directly into one of two 3.5mm jack in the back of the hub. Logitech includes a mini IR blaster to extend the coverage of the Hub in case it’s IR output can’t reach a particular piece of equipment, or if a component has been intentionally hidden. The USB Extender is meant for use in hard-to-reach areas, but it does carry an added advantage of being easy to spot, so we didn’t use it exclusively for its intended functional purpose. The two USB receivers are very small dongles that could be easy to lose, so it’s nice to see Logitech including a compartment to store at least one of them in the keyboard itself. Two AA batteries power the keyboard, and next to their slots is another that fits one of the USB receivers for safekeeping. An Off button will turn off all devices being used in a current activity. And finally, the row at the top are one-touch activity buttons, like an additional left mouse click, one-touch access to a TV-connected computer, plus Watch TV and Watch a Movie. There’s a dedicated Windows Start button next to the Alt key. The V, B, N and M keys can double as either Xbox or Sony PlayStation buttons. The Function row along the top can handle things like the guide, DVR, menus, media playback and volume. Logitech really went to town on the keyboard’s layout, utilizing as many of the keys as possible to serve dual functions. Logitech really went to town on the keyboard’s layout. By coupling a keyboard with a trackpad and dedicated function buttons, along with the efficient Harmony Hub infrared blaster, Logitech’s Harmony Smart Keyboard aims to make interacting with next-generation home theater gear more fun, engaging and effective. how we interact with our home theaters.Īnyone who has used a smart TV, Roku, Apple TV or similar device knows the pain of entering usernames, email addresses, passwords, URLs, and search keywords – never mind those that actually use a home theater PC. That’s because the Harmony Smart Keyboard is Logitech’s answer to the blurring line between how we interact with our computers vs. In fact, this remote looks like it belongs on your computer desk, not your coffee table. Most of Logitech’s well-respected Harmony remotes come in the familiar wand-style form, but this product is a bit of a departure from that trend. Trackpad won’t work with some entertainment devices Requires a smartphone or tablet to set up
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