The new Logitech Harmony Express is a universal remote powered by Alexa

It is immediately obvious that the Harmony Express is very different from the universal remotes we are used to, even from those of Logitech. Rather than having buttons for virtually every imaginable feature – or a touch screen, when the buttons are not enough – the Harmony Express looks more like the remote control you could get with a streaming stick. It has a circular D-pad and a handful of buttons. The 'select' button in the center of the d-pad also serves as an important Alexa button, lit with a blue ring when used, like a tiny Amazon Echo.

You should do almost anything you expect from the universal remote, except often via voice commands instead of buttons. An included Harmony Blaster connects to your devices via infrared, Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi, and an IR mini blaster helps you extend coverage to devices without direct line of sight.

You can use voice commands to turn on or turn off specific devices, launch applications, access specific channels, and more. Of course, you can also use Alexa for tasks that you can not use with a conventional universal remote, like asking your favorite TV when. show is on or control your other smart devices.