If you own a TV, you have probably heard about universal remotes. You may have even wondered if you should buy one. The truth is technology has advanced a lot, and most of us have multiple devices that deliver our multimedia experiences. But, along with each of those devices comes a remote, which means you probably have a pile of them! And when you go to increase the volume or adjust the picture, it may get confusing trying to remember which one does what. That’s where a universal remote comes in.
What is a Universal Remote and What Does it Do?
A universal TV remote controls much more than just your TV. The newer fancier models now control a wide variety of devices, making it easy to use one remote to control everything. Some of the things you can do with a universal remote are:
Multitask – You can program a universal remote to turn on multiple devices simultaneously. For example, you could hit the power button and your TV and sound system (soundbar, speakers, or surround sound system) would power up at the same time. Universal remotes can also control devices like:
- DVD/VCR
- DVR
- Amplifier
- Game console
- Computers
- Lights
- Thermostats
- Cable box
- Satellite controller
Control Smarthome – Some universal remotes can control smart home devices that are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Examples are Alexa devices, Google Assistant appliances, Philips Hue lights, and more.
Control Old School Gadgets – A few models can even control older devices with an IR sensor. For example, your air conditioner, lights, and electric fireplaces.
Why You Need a Universal TV Remote
The biggest reason you need a universal TV remote is to simplify your life and your
home theater experience. Some people have turned areas of their homes (basements are a popular location) into true home theaters. Most are outfitted with a
projector or large-screen TV to make watching movies and game playing more enjoyable.
However, to get that truly
immersive home theater experience, you need a lot of equipment like a Blu-Ray player, cable or streaming box, sound system with a receiver, and speakers, and sometimes even additional components. After installing your home theater, you may find that to control everything for an evening of watching movies; you will be juggling multiple remotes.
A universal remote streamlines everything by allowing you to control not only your TV, sound system, and add-ons but also lighting, temperature control, and more. You could potentially control every device in the room using one smart remote.
Keep in mind that there are dozens of models out there and not all of them work with every TV make, model, and equipment. Do a little homework before choosing the one that will work with all your devices, making your entertainment time much more efficient and enjoyable.
Why You Need a TV Warranty
TVs have gotten larger and more complex as the years have passed. Current models come pre-loaded with dozens of apps to stream all your favorite content on the TV without any add-on equipment. There is no doubt that modern TVs are a marvel, and they just keep getting better all the time. However, all those fancy features come at a price. The magic that makes it all happen is complex electronics and mechanical parts that could easily break even after your warranty has expired.
Before buying that new big-screen TV, it’s essential first to check out the
TV warranty. Most of them cover only defects and parts for the first year. After that, you are on your own. Most people don’t buy a new TV expecting it only to last a year. So, what do you do if it breaks when you’re not covered? You would be responsible for paying for repairs or replacing it.
With an Upsie warranty, however, you would be covered! Upsie takes over where your original warranty leaves off, providing you with years of protection for things like:
- Dead pixels
- Screen burn-in
- Mechanical failure
- Power issues
- Speaker/sound issues
- Button problems
- Wi-Fi failure
An Upsie warranty costs up to 70% less than other warranties, and it’s transferrable, so if you give away or sell your TV, Upsie goes along with it.
Upsie’s claims department is open 24/7, and you have access to unlimited claims up to the full price of your TV.
With Upsie, you can sit back and relax watching all your favorite shows and movies, knowing your equipment is fully protected.
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