Years before smartphones were a thing, Nokia was one of the first
manufacturers to add IR blasters to its dumbphones. The use case was
pretty limited, though, as the cool factor typically ended after the fun
of turning TVs off at Circuit City died off.
But IR is getting its second wind in a new wave of smartphones packing the technology, namely, the S4.
This time around, the use case is much more tangible, posing a real
threat to the traditional TV remote. Powered by WatchOn (and
Peel),
the S4 is more than just a substitute clicker -- it's an intelligent
companion that can change the way you surf channels, personalizing your
experience based on your (and your friends') interests.
At least, that's the promise. Here's how to set up your S4 as a
universal remote that controls your home theater system and gives you
personalized recommendations based on your interests.
Launching the app
Launch the WatchOn app, which came preinstalled on your S4. Upon
opening the app for the first time, you'll be asked to surrender a
little information about yourself, like what kinds of shows you like and
what sports you're into. The app will even request your name and
gender. It's a series of questions that might be off-putting for a first
acquaintance, but WatchOn needs to know these things to deliver
relevant, personalized recommendations on what to watch.
If you'd rather not divulge, though, choose the option to skip. (You can always go back later via Settings.)
At the end of that process, you'll be taken straight to the primary
WatchOn interface, where the app has already begun to create a catalog
of shows tailored to your tastes and based on the cable provider you
indicated early on.
But, before we dive into that interface and learn about the features,
you still have to pair your phone with your TV, cable box, and any
other components so it can act as your universal remote. See more>>