Do you want to get rid of physical controls so that you can use them on your mobile phone ? Know how you can do that and how many universal commands do you need?
At Smartify we have an intelligent option that will mark the end of the confusion of remote controls scattered around the house, with buttons that malfunction and that keep mysteriously disappearing. This device is the universal remote control. A versatile and powerful device with the ability to control multiple commands through a single device , simplifying your experience and making managing your equipment more convenient.
What is a universal command?
A universal remote offers centralized control for the automation of electronic equipment. By programming the universal remote with the specific codes for each device, you can replicate the functionality of individual remote controls. This way, you don't need to have multiple remotes scattered around the house, as you can use just one universal remote to control all your equipment.

The universal remote has a vast database of brands and models of remotes that you can associate with the indicated device. If your remote still doesn't appear in the database, you can also program a remote using the "DIY" mode. So you can put virtually any command on your phone.
Universal command types
There are different types of universal remotes available on the market, each with its own unique features and functionality. The two main types are Universal Infrared Keyfobs and Universal Infrared and Radio Frequency Keyfobs.
Universal infrared remotes are designed to control equipment that uses infrared signals, such as televisions, DVD players, sound systems and other similar devices. These remotes can learn each device's specific infrared codes, allowing you to control them from a single remote.
On the other hand, the universal infrared and radio frequency controls offer additional functionality. In addition to controlling infrared equipment, these commands can also communicate with devices that use radio frequency, such as climate control systems, electric blinds and smart lighting. That means you can have more comprehensive and versatile control over a variety of equipment, increasing the automation possibilities in your home.

It is therefore important to see which remotes you have at home, to understand what kind of universal remote you need. It's very simple to see if the command you want to put on your smartphone is infrared or radio frequency: On the remote control, look for visible LED lamps , which indicates being IR, or the absence of them, suggesting RF. You can also confirm the range, as IR generally has a short range and requires line of sight, while RF has a longer range and does not require direct line of sight. If you still have doubts, research the device or use a camera to identify infrared light when pressing the buttons. Modern devices can support both methods.
Popular brands of universal remotes
There are several popular brands that offer high quality universal remotes. Here are some of them:
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Smartify is a renowned brand that provides a universal infrared remote control for the automation of equipment in your home. The Smartify universal remote is an elegant device that supports all the infrared devices you want to put on your smartphone. It has intuitive programming features and Wi-Fi connectivity and is easy to set up and use. In addition, Smartify also offers a wide range of other products for home automation, such as smart bulbs, smart plugs and sensors.
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Sonoff is a brand specialized in home automation solutions and offers high quality universal controls. Sonoff universal remotes are compatible with radiofrequency commands and allow the control of Sonoff devices. They have advanced programming features and compatibility with voice assistants such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
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BroadLink is a recognized brand in the field of home automation and offers a variety of advanced universal remotes. BroadLink Universal Remotes support both infrared and radio frequency, allowing you to control a wide range of electronic devices. In addition, BroadLink offers additional features such as remote control via a mobile app and integration with voice assistants such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

These are just a few examples of popular brands on the market, but there are many other options available. When choosing a universal remote control, make sure that it is compatible with your equipment and offers the necessary functions for the desired automation.
Do I need a universal command for each device I want to automate?
This is a common question that has a positive and simple answer. No, you don't need a universal remote for each device. In fact, a single universal remote can control several devices at the same time. For example, if you have a room with a television, a DVD player, a sound system and even an air conditioner, you can program all these devices in the same universal remote. That means you can control all your equipment with a single remote, eliminating the need for multiple individual controls.
As a rule, you need a universal remote control for each room that you want to put your remote control on your smartphone.

Universal remotes make it simple to automate electronics in your home, providing convenient, centralized control. With a single device, you can eliminate the clutter of multiple remote controls and enjoy a more intuitive user experience. Whatever your automation needs, a universal remote is the ideal solution to efficiently control your appliances. Choose the universal remote that suits your needs and enjoy a smarter, more automated home.
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