Do you have to point the Apple Remote at the infrared sensor whilst using the remote?

As in it works wireless? I use HDMI to the TV to watch films etc. and would rather point at the television than the iMac located behind me to control content. Thinking of buying one, wont bother otherwise.

Unless there's a wireless device that can be plugged into a USB port on the iMac and receive infrared entries wirelessly from an IR receiver located under the television.. Thanks