Rowmote Pro: A New Level of Wireless Control
By: @Joel_Appboy
One of the apps I use the most on my iPhone is “Remote” for iTunes. “Remote” allows you to wirelessly control your iTunes via Wi-Fi. The simple controls, which mirror the iPod interface, are easy to use and there is zero delay. I can’t count how many times this app has come in handy. Whether I’m changing songs across the house, or turning off the music before bed, this app has literally simplified my life. The only problem is, it only works with iTunes. What if I want to control iPhoto, or DVD player or my Apple TV?
This is where Rowmote comes in. Assuming that your computer and iPhone/iPod Touch share the same local network as your Mac, you can use the app to control the computer. Opening the app will reveal a controller with a very similar interface to Apple’s physical remote which comes with Macs and Apple TV. There’s a plus, minus, next, previous and play/pause button along with a menu button underneath. Each button has multiple uses, for example: the play button may play/pause music in iTunes but also is the enter button in Front Row. You’ll also get a list of shortcuts to many applications. This is what makes Rowmote the best remote app out there: the list of applications is nonstop. You can control Boxee, DVD player, iPhoto, Keynote, PowerPoint, Safari, VLC and many many others. You even have the option to remotely shut down your computer in one click. All this is included in the lite version of the app: Rowmote ($0.99)
If you invest in the extra 4$, you get Rowmote Pro, which includes everything above and more. In the top right hand corner, you’ll find a button, which takes you to a touchpad and keyboard. You can two finger scroll, right click, drag windows and use in landscape mode. The keyboard, which is accessed by shaking your device, has accented / extended character support, “f” keys, arrow keys and home, end, pg up, pg dn buttons.
When first connecting your device with your computer, you may find a second or two of delay but once the app has been running for a while, you’ll find zero delay. You also have to download a quick application on the computer you want to control and enter a passcode shown on your iPhone/iPod Touch. You only need to download the application once, aside from the quick occasional updates and the app runs quietly in the background.
Rowmote is the perfect remote app with a huge list of compatible applications. It’s not going to replace your keyboard or mouse but is perfect for everything from browsing Safari and watching movies on your couch to displaying a PowerPoint presentation at work. The only negatives for the app are the occasional delay and the same interface of buttons for each application. Aside from these small setbacks, Rowmote is a must-have utility app that takes wireless control to a whole new level.
Our Rating: 4.5/5
Developer: Evan Schoenberg
