Universal remotes are handy if you have a home theater system that includes more than just your TV. They are designed to work with the TV, audio/video receiver, soundbar and, in some cases, a gaming console, combining all the remotes into a single unit that controls all the gadgets. They’re big and a bit bulky, but they provide convenient access to connected devices without having to use multiple remotes. Logitech’s Harmony line of universal remotes does just that.
However, in 2021, Logitech discontinued manufacturing of the Harmony universal remotes due to the general belief that people are less likely to need a universal remote these days. Logitech Harmony remotes remained available through other retailers, but the company itself was discontinuing production. As of May 2026, Logitech’s website only lists two Harmony products, Harmony Pro and Harmony One Battery Door, neither of which are actually available for purchase on the site.
Harmony owners were concerned that the decision to stop manufacturing Logitech’s universal remotes would prevent them from working. The good news for these users is that Logitech continues to support Harmony’s remotes, desktop software, and Android and iOS apps, so the remotes still work today; you just won’t find any new ones. If you are looking for a central control unit today, you may want to choose from the best universal remote controls in 2026.
Streaming and smart remotes are the new normal
piccinini game/Shutterstock
With smart TVs, downloadable apps, and smartphones having easy access to streaming and connectivity, the need for a universal remote is reduced, just like Logitech thought. Modern TV remotes are capable of acting as a universal remote by connecting via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Today, everything from your entertainment system to lighting can be controlled by smart devices.
Apps like Apple Home let you connect multiple devices through one phone to perform tasks like turn on a compatible TV, control the volume, play a movie, and dim the lights. Your app of choice will provide details on how to connect additional smart devices so you have full control with just a tap of the screen. You can even set automations that turn devices on and off at certain times.
In today’s age of smart devices, universal remotes may not be necessary, so you could potentially ditch your TV remote for an app. Whether it’s the smart remote that came with your TV, an app connected to all your smart devices, or voice commands, it’s possible to control your connected devices through other means, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The days of using Logitech’s giant universal remote—or other similar models—seem to be numbered, although you can never completely rule out any particular technology. After all, if record players can make a comeback, maybe universal remotes will follow suit in a few decades.
Do you ever need a universal remote these days?
Mariuszblach/Getty Images
With modern technology and today’s streaming options, the need for a universal remote is less likely, leading Logitech to discontinue production. Still, a universal remote gives you access to control an entire home entertainment system and can still be a good option if you don’t have smart devices or prefer an older approach. If you like to watch movies from the comfort of your couch or have a room dedicated to watching movies, like you would at the cinema, the setup will require quite a bit of technology. Controlling multiple devices can be done via all the individual remotes, but it will take time. Having a universal remote to control surround sound, TV and A/V receiver makes it easy to enjoy a movie night.
A universal remote control is a versatile tool that combines all the remote controls for your TV, stereo, and in some cases, game consoles into one. This is convenient but has a drawback in that it must be configured with each device before it can be used. This can be done by you or by a qualified professional, depending on the developer. Logitech’s Harmony Pro, for example, can only be installed by professionals.
As one of the few gadgets capable of upgrading your TV, a universal remote like Logitech’s is completely unique in how it works. A universal remote can control additional devices via built-in IR, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, depending on the device. It’s also capable of using HDMI-CEC through a connected device like a TV to control devices while remaining your best option in cases where the Wi-Fi signal is limited or unavailable, making the use of smart devices and remote controls much less feasible.