Hama has announced a new 8-in-1 universal remote that can streamline your home entertainment system and save you from the occasional need to find a new set of batteries. The German accessories manufacturer uses Exeger’s Powerfoyle solar cell technology so the remote will stay powered as long as it is regularly exposed to light.
Details on what types of remotes Hama’s 8-in-1 can replace haven’t been shared yet, but the power generated by the solar cell on top of the remote is stored in a supercapacitor instead of a rechargeable battery. The remote is expected to be available starting in the second quarter of 2025 for €29.99, or about $33 SSD.
The company also plans to release an alternative to Samsung’s own solar-powered Bluetooth remote at the same time, priced at €39.99, or about $47 USD. Hama’s version replicates all of Samsung’s functionality, including voice assistance, but puts the solar panel on top of the remote, instead of the bottom, so you don’t have to remember to flip it to keep it powered.
Unlike solar panels used to charge large backup batteries that work best in direct sunlight, Exeger’s solar technology can power smaller devices using ambient light in a room, even it’s just from a lamp. The company’s flexible Powerfoyle solar cell has already been incorporated into products such as wireless headphones, earbuds, and speakers by companies such as Urbanista but is better suited to devices such as remote controls, which have less power draw.
