What software will the infrared Apple Remote device work with?

Question

What software will the infrared Apple Remote device work with?

I'm getting a Mac Mini, and in addition to other things, I will also be using it to play DVDs, CDs and various other media files.

The Apple Remote infrared device sounds useful for controlling things without having to be near the computer.

So, my question is: What software will the Apple Remote work with?

NB: I am talking about the hardware device, NOT the app.

Which of the following will it work with:?

DVD Player

Quick Time Player

iTunes

BBC iPlayer, ITV Player, 4OD etc. (Yes, I'm in the UK)

Youtube and other online streaming sites

And by "work"; I mean using the Remote to play, pause, rewind, fast-forward, skip, select, alter volume etc. (as appropriate)

Many thanks.

Posted on Jul 12, 2014 2:22 PM

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Answer 1

lllaass

Level 10

210,411 points

Jul 12, 2014 2:25 PM in response to Little Endian

iTunes only. See the app description

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/remote/id284417350?mt=8

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Answer 2

Jul 14, 2014 9:32 AM in response to Little Endian

Actually the Remote works with more than iTunes.

Play, Pause, Volume work in iTunes, QuickTime, DVD Player, Plex, XBMC.

Volume works in all programs since it is controlling the Mac rather than a program.

Next/Back work in PowerPoint and Keynote. Current Mac laptops no longer have remote receiver built-in (except the old style MacBook Pro) but it used to be common to control presentations this way.

Other than the old-style MacBook Pro 13" (still on sale), the Mac mini is I believe the only model still with a built-in IR receiver.

Other than the volume I would not expect much to work with 4oD, ITV Player etc. since these are merely webpages, I have no idea about the full-blown Mac BBC iPlayer application. They would work if accessed via the plugins in Plex and/or XBMC and those applications would handle supporting the remote control and both fully support the Apple Remote.

I would guess but have not tested it that VLC would also have some support. Remember VLC can play DVDs as well.

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