Accessory makers appear to be convinced that iPhone users need a better way to take selfies. The latest such accessory to do the job is Hisy ($25), from the company of the same name. A 1.25″ wide, 0.48″ tall circular remote, Hisy connects to compatible devices over Bluetooth 4.0, and mimics the functionality of the volume up button. Press its center while in Apple’s camera app, and it’ll snap pics. Included with the remote are a headphone port charm, which allows you to keep the device with you at all times, and a small, folding plastic stand.
Since it’s such a simple accessory, we’ll keep our review of Hisy brief: it works. Press the button with the Camera app open, and it’ll take a shot. There are no surprises or flashy features, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. We were able to reliably snap shots from a distance of around 30 feet away, typical of Bluetooth wireless, and considerably further than most people will need for taking self-portraits.
The stand holds an iPhone at about 80 degrees, which could be a good angle for self-photos, depending on where you set the stand and position yourself. We also liked that Hisy included a way to keep the remote tethered to a device, making the chances of it actually getting used much higher.
Overall, we see Hisy as a much smarter solution than something like iLuv’s Selfy, although as good as it may be, it’s still something of a niche product. That being said, Hisy earns our general recommendation. It could potentially be useful in a number of situations, and while simple, it does just what it’s supposed to do, in a small and affordable package.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Hisy
Model: Hisy
MSRP: $25
Compatibility: iPad (3rd/4th-Gen), iPad Air, iPad mini, iPhone 4S/5/5c/5s, iPod touch 5G
