Remote Control

When Apple announced that iOS 5 would let you snap pictures with the volume up button, it was only a matter of time before some enterprising developers discovered the ability to use a headset equipped with volume remote control as a camera shutter release.

Using the stock Apple headphones that come with your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad, you simply:

1. Open the Camera app
2. Click the volume up remote to release the shutter
3. Enjoy your long distance picture taking power

So camera enthusiasts, is this a big deal for you or just a nice to have? Will it change the way you take pictures with your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad?

[MacRumors]

How do you use your iPhone/iPad as a remote control, and what do you use it to control?

When Apple introduced the iPhone, they also introduced Remote, and app that you could use to control iTunes or your Apple TV. Since then a variety of other, more wide-ranging remote control apps have become available in the iTunes App Store for controlling media, entire computers, and even complete household automation.

With the introduction of the iPad, there's even 9.7" of screen real estate to fill all your controlling needs.

Rē Remote Control is a a new plug-in accessory for the iPhone (and iPod touch?) dock port that aims to turn Apple's mobile platform into the holy grail of living room devices -- a full programmable, multitouch universal RI remote.

Word has it the unveiling will be at CES in January, and TiPb will try to check it out and see if it impresses. However, given how slick WiFi-based remote apps have been for Apple TV, Keynote, VLC, Boxee, etc. it's safe to say we're the tiniest bit excited at the possibilities.