Sofabaton (Love that name) sent me out a smart remote that uses an app to program it. It reminds me of an inexpensive Logitech Harmony remote...without some of the drawbacks. This smart remote uses standard AA batteries, programs with a fairly simple app (once you get to know it) and has 500,000 devices in the cloud (and more...if your device isn't there you can request it be added). Smart Remotes on this level I'd expect to cost a bit more, as the Logitech Harmony was well over $200 (and I believe over $300 when I first got it). This remote is under $60 USD and can replace quite a few remotes.
That said, it's not perfect, and in this review I try to break down the good, the bad, and the awkward.
Note: This review is based on software that was before an August 2023 update which fixed some of the critiques. I've noted that in the video via text overlays where I can. When a company actually supports the software and fixes it and updates it, it can make a review feel a bit outdated right off...that's the nature of video reviews. That being said, much of what I say about the feel, look, functionality is all relevant. Sofabaton has been very responsive to me and my feedback on the remote, and I'll update here if they fix further critiques.
Here's an associates link to the official store:
https://amzn.to/44YXhw0