I have to admit that in between all of the wise cracks about Apple’s unfortunately named tablet PC, the iPad, one thought really nagged at me. What would the iPad mean to the touchpanel business that sits smack in the middle of so many designs by so many CEDIA-channel integrators?
Crestron’s Apple iPad and iPhone interfaces
This past Friday, Crestron did it’s part to remain ahead of the game, at least for now, when it launched a download from the iTunes App Store designed to transform the iPad into a full Crestron touchpanel. According to the Rockleigh, New Jersey, manufacturer, a tap on the Apple tablet screen provides real-time control of Crestron AV systems, lighting, shades, and room temperatures, from any location.
Just like the iPhone and iPod touch, the iPad can seamlessly communicates with a Crestron control system via the 3G, 3GS, or EDGE cellular networks or Wi-Fi, according to the company.
“Crestron is committed to offering great solutions for integrating Apple products into the home, school, and office,” Crestron director of marketing Vincent Bruno stated. “Our Mobile apps are fully compatible with the iPad, and we’re delighted to add the iPad to our selection of Apple-based solutions.”
Another Apple-based Crestron product is the iServer, an audio server that uses an iPod as its internal hard drive. Crestron XPanel for Mac also delivers remote access and control of Crestron systems from any connected iMac or MacBook, and Crestron iPod docks provide all the connectivity needed to share audio and video throughout an entire home or office AV system.
