Apple introduces new Apple Remote

In addition to announcing a new lineup of iMac, MacBook, and Mac mini computers today, Apple has quietly introduced the new Apple Remote ($19), a stylish new update to its prior white plastic version. Silver with a black set of buttons in a wheel-like shape, plus separate Menu and Play buttons, the new Apple Remote resembles a fifth-generation iPod nano minus the screen, and elongated for comfortable use in the hand. It interacts with Apple’s Universal Dock to control an iPod or iPhone’s playback on a television, as well as the Apple TV, and any Mac computer with an Infrared port. One other notable change is to the battery compartment, which has been moved to the rear of the Remote, with a twisting closure instead of the pop-out mechanism used in the older version. Apple’s online store currently shows the new Apple Remote as available within 2 to 4 weeks.