Replace a pile of battery-hungry remotes with this solar-powered universal

Hama has announced a new 8-in-1 universal remote that can streamline your home entertainment system and save you from occasionally having to scrounge for a fresh set of batteries. The German accessories maker is using Exeger’s Powerfoyle solar cell technology so the remote stays powered as long as it’s 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 located on top of the remote is stored in a supercapacitor instead of a rechargeable battery. The remote is expected to be available starting sometime in the second quarter of 2025 for €29.99, or around $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 around $47 USD. Hama’s version replicates all of the functionality of Samsung’s, including voice assistance, but positions the solar panel on the top of the remote, instead of on the underside, so you don’t have to remember to flip it over to keep it powered.

Unlike the solar panels used to charge large backup batteries that work best in direct sunlight, Exeger’s solar technology can power smaller devices using the ambient light in a room, even if it’s just from a lamp. The company’s flexible Powerfoyle solar cells have already been integrated into products like wireless headphones, earbuds, and speakers by companies such as Urbanista but are especially well suited to devices like remote controls, which have much less power draw.

Companies like Ambient Photonics have previously announced similar solar power solutions for TV remotes, but Hama’s universal solution will be one of the first consumers can buy directly instead of getting it bundled with TVs or streaming boxes.