Savant unveils new remote control with VoIP service capabilities

Technology firm Savant has unveiled the design for a new touchscreen remote control which also functions as a VoIP phone.

The screen is the same interface which is found in the latest iPod Touch, enabling users to control any device which is connected to the system, including lighting, television and security cameras.

Savant, which operates its own VoIP platform, has also incorporated the voice technology into the Wi-Fi enabled device.

Bob Madonna, founder and chief executive of Savant, claimed the firm is consistently aiming to be innovative to "help broaden the capabilities of home control for consumers".

He said: "Because our new remote is based upon the iPod touch, it has allowed us to leverage our iPhone/iPod touch application, our own iPBX telephony solution as well as over 200,000 apps that are available all within an elegant, lightweight user interface."

The touch remote will be available in early 2011 for around $399 (£255).