Now anyone with an iPhone or iPod touch can control all of their electronic devices with the L5 Remote from L5 Technology (http://www.L5technology.com). It's a combination of US$49.95 device and a free app you can download from the Apple App Store.

The L5 Remote provides consumers with an alternative that replaces multiple remote controls. It transforms the iPhone or iPod touch into a personal universal remote that controls televisions, DVD players, DVRs, cable boxes, audio equipment, and most other products that come with an infrared remote.

Consumers purchase the L5 Remote hardware -- an adaptor measuring 1.25 x .85 inches -- and plug it into the iPhone or iPod touch docking port. They will then be prompted to download a free app from the Apple App Store, which allows them to drag-and-drop any desired combination of buttons to create their own remote control interface. A short, guided training sequence follows, resulting in a smart remote control that replaces their pile of old remotes with a single powerful and convenient one, according to Wade McNary, CEO of L5 Technology.

Using infrared technology, the L5 Remote can purportedly control up to 100,000 buttons arranged in up to 1,000 remotes. It will work to a distance of approximately 30 feet.

The L5 Remote is portable and doesn'trequire batteries, Wi-Fi or external power to work. The product can control thousands of devices, including TVs, cable boxes, stereos, DVD players, ceiling fans, air conditioners, and many other products.