Big talkers are going to think this GE Flip Universal Remote is a cellphone, but science fiction fans will think it vaguely resembles a Star Trek prop, a cross between a Type 1 phaser weapon and a communicator. While you won't be able to set this phaser to kill all your least-favorite TV programs, it is able to control four different devices at the same time with its library of over 1000 remote control codes inside.

When closed, the remote's basic functions for controlling volume, channel and power on/off are available on buttons on the outside of the clamshell design, but when you open it, there's the usual full array of controls within. It's good to see those raised buttons are a little easier to use than flat cellphone keys, albeit all are bit too small to be operated in the dark.

Finally shipping now, this $18.99 universal remote control's unique design was deemed good enough to make it an Innovations Honoree in the Video Accessories category for January's 2007 Consumer Electronics Show. — Charlie White

Jasco/GE Press Release, via Crave