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Logitech Harmony
Logitech Harmony
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Logitech Harmony 1000

Logitech Harmony is a line of remote controls and home automation products formerly produced by Logitech. The line includes universal remote products designed for controlling the components of home theater systems (including televisions, set-top boxes, DVD and Blu-ray players, video game consoles) and other devices that can be controlled via infrared, as well as newer smart home hub products that can be used to additionally control supported Internet of things (IoT) and Smart home products, and allow the use of mobile apps to control devices. Logitech stopped manufacturing Harmony remotes in 2021 and discontinued support for older models in 2025.[1][2]

History

[edit]

The Harmony remote control was originally created in 2001 by Easy Zapper, a Canadian company, and first sold in November 2001.[3][4] The company later changed its name to Intrigue Technologies and was located in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Computer peripheral manufacturer Logitech acquired it in May 2004 for US$29 million, turning Harmony remotes into a worldwide phenomenon.[5]

In April 2021, Logitech announced the decision to discontinue the manufacturing of Harmony remotes.[1][6] In 2025, they announced that support for older models that depended on the Harmony Remote software would end on May 28, 2025.[2] As of 2025, models that are compatible with the newer MyHarmony app are still supported.

Features

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All Harmony remotes are set up online using an external configuration software. For all models this can be done using a computer running Microsoft Windows or MacOS to which they need to be connected via USB cable; the Elite and Ultimate models can also be configured wirelessly using a smartphone app for Android or iOS.

Each remote has infrared (IR) learning capability (some later models also include RF support), and can upload information about a new remote to an online device database. As of 2012 5000+ brands of devices were supported.

All Harmony remotes support one-touch activity-based control, which allows control of multiple devices at once. For example, a home theater setup might include a TV, a digital set top box and a home theater sound system. Pressing the 'Watch TV' activity button on the remote will turn on the TV, turn on digital set top box, turn on the sound system, switch the input of TV to the digital set top box and switch the input of the sound system to the set top box. In addition, the volume buttons would be mapped to the sound system, the channel buttons would be mapped to the digital set top box, and other controls to the most appropriate system component for the activity. The remote would remember which devices were powered on or off and which inputs devices had previously been switched to, allowing it to transition the devices from one activity to another without sending redundant or incorrect commands.

Programming

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Older-model Harmony remotes used Harmony Remote software, which allowed users to update the remote configuration, learn IR commands, and upgrade the remote control's firmware.[7]

Version 6 of the software required a web browser; newer versions are Java-based. The software required constant Internet connectivity while programming the remote, as remote control codes were downloaded from Logitech. This method allowed updates to the product database, remote codes, and macro sequences to be easily distributed. This also allowed Logitech to survey their market to determine which products to investigate and research.[citation needed] Harmony Remote software was available for Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X.

On March 31, 2010, Logitech launched a new website and app called "MyHarmony" which replaced the Harmony Remote software for newer-model remotes.[8] The Harmony 700 and Harmony One remotes were compatible with either software. Other remotes from 2009 and earlier were only compatible with Harmony Remote, while later remotes were only compatible with MyHarmony.

In 2025, Logitech announced that support for older models that depended on the Harmony Remote software would end on May 28, 2025.[2] Remotes will continue to work, but can no longer be reprogrammed. Models that are compatible with the MyHarmony app can still be programmed.

Products

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Harmony remote model numbers are not sequential, but are grouped into "series" reflecting their cost and performance.

200 and 300 series
Released after 2010, these are very basic universal remotes that use the Harmony software and design.[9]
500 series
Released between 2005 and 2008, the 500-series remotes are mid-range products with a squared-off physical design. These remotes offered control of up to 15 devices at a more affordable price than some later models. The remotes have a back-lit monochrome LCD screen.
600 series
These mid-range remotes have an "hourglass" shape designed to fit well in the hand.
700 series
The 700-series remotes offer higher performance than the 500 and 600 series models. They were released throughout the time Harmony remotes were produced. They came in various shapes.
800–1000 series
These remotes were high-end products aimed at audiophiles with complex audiovisual systems to control.
Home automation products
Logitech released a variety of products designed for control of home automation as well as audiovisual systems. Many of these products had names rather than model numbers.

First generation

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First-generation Harmony remotes use the Harmony Remote software, rather than the MyHarmony software used by newer models. In March 2025, Logitech announced that it was dropping support for its first-generation Harmony remotes. As a result, it is no longer possible to reprogram these remotes.[2]

2004–2006

[edit]
Harmony 520
The Harmony 520 is a mid-range remote with a squared-off physical design compared to the hourglass design of the 6xx series. It has a blue back-light and monochrome LCD screen.[9] These 5xx models are equipped with an infrared learning port to learn IR signals of unsupported or unknown devices. By pointing an original remote control at the Harmony's learning port, it is able to copy and reproduce those codes and, in the case of supported devices, it is able to figure out what the remote is used to control and imports that device. They require 4 AAA batteries. A mini USB port is used to connect these to a computer for programming. The 520 was sold in the United states. It can control up to 15 devices.
Harmony 525
The Harmony 525 is the European version of the 520. It has 50 buttons compared to the 520's 46. The added buttons are red, green, yellow and blue buttons that are used for things like teletext and PVR control. The 525 can control up to 15 devices.
Harmony 550
The harmony 550 remote is a variant of the 520 remote, made of higher-grade materials with different colors. It has 52 buttons. The added buttons are up arrow, down arrow, A, B, and sound and picture buttons that change the button mapping on the remote, allowing for reuse of the same physical buttons for a different set of functions. The remote has a blue backlight.
Harmony 555
The Harmony 555 is the European version of the 550 with four color buttons like the 525 instead of the up/down arrow and A/B buttons. The backlight is orange.
Harmony for Xbox 360
This member of the 5xx series was marketed as a companion to the Xbox 360. It runs the same software as other 5xx-series remotes. The Harmony 360 is pre-configured to be used with the Xbox 360 console and has special buttons, X, Y, A, B and media center control, correlating with the buttons on native Xbox controllers. It has a back-lit LCD screen and uses four AAA batteries.[10]
The hardware layout is mostly the same as the 550, but with the extra up/down arrows of the 550 removed to make room for the colored X, Y, A and B buttons beneath the play and pause rows. The Harmony for Xbox 360 has the most hardware buttons of any in the 500 series: 54, counting the four direction arrow keys. It can control up to 12 devices.
Harman/Kardon TC 30
The Harman/Kardon TC 30 appears to be a redesigned, rebranded Harmony 52x with a cradle and a color LCD. The LCD has eight items compared to the four of the rest of the Harmony 5xx series. Images exist of the TC 30 both with and without the teletext color buttons, indicating that there were separate American and European versions. It seems to require different software from the Logitech branded remotes — the software was available from Logitech via harmonyremote.com.
Harmony 720
The Harmony 720 was initially offered exclusively through Costco in 2006 and featured a color screen and backlit keys.[11] It was designed as an inexpensive replacement for the earlier Harmony 880, with few differences except for the ergonomic design and key layout.[11] It was later made available through other vendors, but was not listed on Logitech's product page.[12][13]
The Harmony 720 remote is closely related to the 500 series, with a square shape and a layout akin to those remotes. The buttons above the LCD are similar to those on the Harmony 525. The 720 has a colour LCD with six buttons/activities instead of four. The eight play/stop etc. buttons have been moved to the lower part. The Mute and Prev buttons have been moved and in their place there are extra up and down buttons as on the 550. Compared to the 500 series, the glow button has been removed. These remotes do not have the Sound and Picture buttons to change key mappings, like the 550/555 remotes do. Lacking red, green, yellow and blue colour buttons, the 720 has 49 buttons. It can control up to 12 devices.
Harmony 745
Logitech sold the original Easy Zapper Harmony remote for a while as the Harmony 745. It had much of the functionality of later models and could control up to 15 devices, but lacked the stylish design of later models.[9][4]
Harmony 880
The Harmony 880 was the first Harmony with a color LCD screen and a rechargeable battery. There was a short-lived 880Pro that had the picture and sound buttons.[9] This remote did not feature multi-room/multi-controller support like the 890Pro.
Harmony 885
The Harmony 885 is the European version of the 880, with four color keys used for Teletext and some set-top boxes instead of the up and down arrow keys.
Harmony 890/895
The Harmony 890/895 is the same as the 880/885, but it adds radio frequency (RF) capability, enabling the remote to control devices even without line-of-sight to and from different rooms, up to a range of 30 meters. This remote control cannot control proprietary RF devices, but it can control special Z-Wave RF devices, as well as IR devices without line-of-sight via the RF extender.[14][15]
Harmony 890Pro
The 890Pro adds multi-room and multi-controller support, as well as a different color scheme. (Primary and secondary remotes can be set up that work with the same wireless extender) It also adds two buttons — picture and sound — that allow for quick access to picture- and sound-related commands. It was not listed on the Logitech Web site and was sold through custom installation companies. The 890Pro was not shipped with the RF extender.

2008–2009

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Harmony 510/515
The Harmony 510/515 is an entry-level remote. It has the same number of buttons as the 525 and features colored buttons typical on most satellite boxes. It has a four-button, monochrome LCD display. This remote is software-limited to controlling up to five devices. Like its mid-range cousins, the 520 and 550, it has no recharge pod and uses AAA batteries instead.[16] Despite only supporting up to five devices, this model sold for the same price as earlier 500-series models. The difference between the 510 and 515 is that the 510 is black, while the 515 is silver.
Harmony 610
The Harmony 610 is similar to the Harmony 620 and Harmony 670, but is black with a silver face panel. The 610 can control a maximum of 5 devices.[9]
Harmony 620
The Harmony 620 is similar to the Harmony 670, but comes in black instead of silver/black. The 620 can control up to 12 devices.
Harmony 628
The Harmony 628 could control up to 12 devices.[9]
Harmony 655
Harmony 659 remote
Harmony 659
The Harmony 659 is a mid-range universal remote that offers most of the functionality in the Harmony line. It has a monochrome LCD screen and can control up to 15 devices.[17]
Harmony 670
Harmony 670
The Harmony 670 is a mid-range universal remote that offers most of the functionality in the Harmony line. The 670 has a monochrome LCD screen and puts DVR functions in the middle of the remote.[18]
Harmony 675
Harmony 676
The Harmony 676 has a monochrome screen and can control up to 15 devices.[9]
Harmony 680
The Harmony 680 is a mid-range remote. It has a backlit monochrome LCD screen and buttons specific to media PCs. Unlike many newer Harmony remotes, the 680 is able to control up to 15 devices.
Harmony 688
The Harmony 688 is a mid-range remote. It has a monochrome LCD screen that is backlit by a blue electroluminescent sheet, and can control up to 15 devices.[9]
Harmony 768: capsule-shaped, with a clickable thumb-wheel
Harmony 748
The Harmony 748 is a capsule-shaped remote similar in design to the 768, but with a greatly reduced set of buttons.[9] It can control up to 15 devices.
Harmony 768
The Harmony 768 is a capsule-shaped remote with a backlit LCD screen. It was available in silver, blue and red. It has 32 buttons, as well as a clickable thumb-wheel to scroll through and select activities.[19]
Harmony 785
The harmony 785 is the European version of the 720.[9] While the 720 has 49 buttons, the 785 has 53. The extra buttons are the red, green, yellow and blue colour buttons commonly used for things like teletext and PVR control. These are located above the number buttons, which are placed further down compared to the 720. Another difference from the 720 is that the 785 can control up to 15 devices.
Harmony 900
Harmony 900 has the same ergonomic design as the Harmony One. It adds four color buttons and supports RF control. The RF technology used by Harmony 900 is not compatible with Harmony 890, 1000, and 1100. The Harmony 900 does not support "sequences" (Logitech parlance for macros). Despite being released after the Harmony One, the 900 is not compatible with the MyHarmony software and can no longer be programmed.[2]
Harmony 1000
The Harmony 1000 has customizable touch screen commands, sounds and a rechargeable battery, and allows control of up to 15 devices by IR and RF. An RF extender allowed control of IR devices out of line of sight. A maximum of two extenders can be configured within the software. An 1000i model without RF capability was also available.[9]
Harmony 1100
Adds QVGA resolution to the touch screen and allows 15 devices to be controlled.[20] The 1100 uses a Flash-based user interface rather than the Java-based one found in the Harmony 1000. An 1100i model without RF capability was also available.[9]

Transitional models (2008–2009)

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Harmony 700
Support for up to 6 devices. Color display. Rechargeable AA batteries via USB. Released in September 2009, this model is compatible with both the older Harmony Remote software and the MyHarmony software that was released in March 2010.
Harmony One
Released in January 2008, the Harmony One remote features a color touch screen and is rechargeable.[9] It does not offer any RF capability. A 2008 CNET TV review called it one of the best universal remotes on the market.[21] It is compatible with both the older Harmony Remote software and the MyHarmony software that was released in March 2010.

MyHarmony models

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2010–2012

[edit]
Harmony 200
This basic universal remote supports only one activity, Watch TV, and can control only three devices.[9] It has no screen.
Harmony 300
This basic universal remote supports only one activity, Watch TV, and can control up to four devices. The remote supports customizable keys with remote features and favorite channels. This remote has no LCD and no battery charge pod. Requires two AA batteries.[22]
Harmony 300i
Similar to the Harmony 300, but has a glossy finish rather than a matte finish.
Harmony 600
Support for up to 5 devices. Monochrome display. Requires 2 AA batteries.
Harmony 650
The lowest-cost version of the Harmony remote with a color display. It can be programmed with multiple activities and up to 8 devices.
Harmony Touch
The Harmony Touch remote control contains a full-color display screen with touch functionality. It is an IR remote that supports up to 15 devices and multiple activities. It lacks dedicated physical buttons for home automation control. This remote can be added to a Harmony Hub for additional functionality.
Harmony Link
A device which utilizes a mobile app as a remote to control devices within the room. It was later replaced by the Harmony Hub product, which also supports controlling smart home products. On November 8, 2017, Logitech announced that it would end support for the Harmony Link and make the devices inoperable after March 18, 2018, citing an expired security certificate for a component in the platform. Following criticism of Logitech's originally-announced plan to do so for users whose devices were still under warranty, Logitech announced on November 10, 2017, that it would exchange all Harmony Links for Harmony Hubs free-of-charge, regardless of warranty status.[23][24]

2013–2020

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Harmony 350
An updated version of the 300 that can control up to 8 devices in particular categories and supports only one activity: Watch TV. Like the 300, this model lacks a display screen.
Harmony 665
Has a color display and can control up to ten devices.[9]
Harmony Smart Control
Includes a Harmony Home Hub and a simple remote control that contains three activity buttons used to activate up to 6 different activities. The simple remote lacks a display screen, and could also be purchased separately for those who already own a Harmony Home Hub. Supports up to 8 devices.
Harmony Ultimate One/Harmony Ultimate
The Harmony Ultimate One remote control is a revised version of the Harmony Touch adding motion-activated backlit keys, eyes-free gesture control, tilt sensor and vibration feedback. This remote can be added to a Harmony Hub for additional functionality. The Harmony Ultimate was a bundle containing both the Harmony Ultimate One remote control and the Harmony Hub.
Harmony Hub
This device is not a remote, but rather a hub that can control IR and Bluetooth devices, as well as certain smart home devices (e.g. Philips Hue, Nest thermostat). It is controlled by certain Harmony remotes as well iOS/Android based apps, and more recently Alexa can control certain functions. By itself, it can control up to 8 home theater devices and an amount of home automation devices. A lot of the current products include this along with the remote. This replaces the older Harmony Home Hub and Harmony Link devices.
Harmony 950/Harmony Elite/Harmony Pro
This was the top of the Harmony range available via retail. The Harmony 950 is a redesigned version of the Harmony Ultimate One with the addition of dedicated physical buttons for home automation control. Other changes include the media transport control buttons being relocated to a more ergonomic location, and the addition of user accessible battery compartment. This remote can be added to a Harmony Hub for additional functionality. The Harmony Elite is a bundle containing both the Harmony 950 remote control and the Harmony Hub. The Harmony Pro is the Harmony Elite bundle sold for professional installers.
Harmony Ultimate Home
Includes the Harmony Home Hub and a remote similar to the above described Harmony Ultimate One. The package includes four IR emitters, the remote, the hub, and two IR extenders that plug into the hub. Pressing a button on the included remote or any add-on remote will first communicate with the hub, then the hub will tell one of the four IR emitters based on configuration (including the IR emitter on the remote) to transmit the command. Harmony Ultimate Home also contains home automation controls, unlike the Ultimate One. The remote can't be purchased separately for Home Hub owners, unlike most of the other remotes that include it. It supports a maximum of 15 devices.
Harmony Pro 2400
The Pro 2400 is the only Harmony product that includes a hub with an Ethernet port, as well as power over Ethernet (POE) support. The hub is significantly wider, and comes with a detachable directional antenna. It also has six, 3.5mm jacks for IR sensors (versus two, 2.5 mm jacks on other Hub products). It uses the Elite remote, and is only available through professional installers.
Harmony Express
The Express uses Amazon Alexa to navigate, via a smaller distinct remote. It is the only Harmony remote that supports voice-activated search.
Harmony Companion (formerly Harmony Home Control)
Like the Harmony Smart Control described above, but the included Simple Remote also contains home automation controls. Like the Smart Control Simple Remote, the included remote lacks a display screen, but it cannot be purchased for Home Hub owners unlike the Smart Control remote.
Harmony Smart Keyboard
This includes the Harmony Hub along with a keyboard containing a built-in touchpad. The keyboard appears to be like Logitech's previous K400 keyboard and touchpad combo, except some of the keys and buttons have been replaced with others more useful to a home theater remote, and two numbered, Harmony-specific USB receivers are included. It lacks a display screen, supports three activities (Watch a Movie, Watch TV, and Listen to Music), and can also be purchased as an add-on accessory for Harmony Home Hub owners. It controls up to 8 devices.

Accessories

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E-R0001
The Harmony E-R0001 is an IR to Bluetooth adapter for the PS3.
RF Wireless Extender
The Harmony RF Wireless Extender allows some Harmony remotes, e.g., models 890, 1000 and 1100, to control devices using radio frequencies instead of infrared, with longer range than infrared and no need for line-of-sight transmission. The Harmony 1000 can use two RF Extenders, while the 1100 can use multiple extenders.
IR Extender System
The Harmony IR Extender System has an IR blaster and a set of mini blasters, and does not require programming. It is manufactured by Philips and rebadged.

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Logitech Harmony was a line of controls and products developed by , designed to consolidate control of multiple home entertainment and smart home devices into a single, intuitive interface using activity-based commands. Introduced following 's acquisition of Intrigue Technologies in for $29 million, the series began as advanced programmable remotes that replaced multiple device-specific controllers with customizable setups supporting (IR), (RF), , and signals. Over nearly two decades, the product line evolved to include over 15 models, such as the touchscreen-equipped One (2008), the RF-enabled 650 (2010), and premium hubs like the Elite (2017), which integrated with voice assistants including and for voice-activated control. Key features of Harmony remotes included one-touch "activities" that sequenced commands across devices—for example, powering on a TV, , and streaming device while adjusting inputs—along with a vast database supporting more than 270,000 devices from over 6,000 brands. Later iterations added smart home compatibility, allowing control of lights, thermostats, and locks via partnerships with platforms like , and multi-zone audio/video management through networked hubs that extended IR signals up to 30 feet. In April 2021, Logitech discontinued manufacturing of new Harmony remotes, citing a strategic shift away from the declining universal remote market, though it committed to ongoing software updates, database maintenance, and for existing units. In March 2025, the company announced the end of support for legacy Harmony Remote Software (version 7.x), which took effect on May 28, 2025, impacting the ability to reprogram first-generation models like the Harmony 890 and earlier; phone support ended on June 1, 2025, with a shift to live chat, while newer hub-based systems retained app-based functionality via the MyHarmony platform, and firmware updates continued into August 2025 for certain models. Despite the phase-out, Harmony products remain available through secondary markets, with their legacy of simplifying complex home setups influencing modern smart home controllers.

History

Origins and Early Development

The Harmony line of universal remotes originated with Easy Zapper Inc., a Canadian startup founded in 2001 in , , dedicated to creating advanced infrared-learning remotes that simplified home entertainment control through PC-based configuration and activity-oriented programming. The company, later renamed Intrigue Technologies, emphasized web-based setup to allow users to define "activities" like "Watch TV," which automatically sequenced commands across multiple devices, marking a shift from traditional button-mashing universals. Intrigue launched the inaugural Harmony remote in November 2001 for $200, featuring a monochrome LCD screen for displaying contextual commands and an online database for downloading device codes, though it required users to connect the remote to a computer via for initial programming. In May 2004, acquired Intrigue Technologies for $29 million in cash, integrating the brand into its expanding lineup of computer peripherals and home entertainment accessories to bolster its presence in the growing market. Under Logitech's ownership, the company released the Harmony 880 in early 2005 as its first fully in-house designed model, introducing a color LCD screen (128x160 pixels), with , and USB connectivity for software-based setup via an that customized device interactions. Early models, including the 880, encountered challenges such as dependence on wired USB or serial connections for syncing configurations and an evolving device database that sometimes necessitated manual IR learning or trial-and-error adjustments for niche or newer equipment. The initial Harmony remotes received positive market reception as a premium option compared to basic universal remotes from brands like One For All, which lacked advanced activity programming and relied on simpler code-entry methods; reviewers highlighted 's intuitive design and expandability, earning it acclaim for transforming complex home theater setups into seamless experiences despite its higher $250 price.

Key Milestones and Expansions

In 2010, introduced the MyHarmony online service, transitioning the setup process from PC-based software to a web-based platform that provided users with access to a cloud-hosted database for device configuration and customization. This shift simplified remote programming by allowing setup via any internet-connected device, eliminating the need for dedicated desktop applications and enhancing accessibility for a broader . Building on this foundation, Logitech released the Harmony Touch in 2012, introducing innovative swipe gestures on its color touchscreen for intuitive navigation and a built-in infrared emitter for direct control of nearby devices. This model marked a significant evolution in user interface design, reducing reliance on physical buttons while supporting up to 15 devices through the expanded MyHarmony ecosystem. The year 2013 saw the launch of the Harmony Hub, a central device that extended control to apps over , allowing users to manage entertainment systems from mobile devices and integrate with emerging voice assistants like in subsequent updates. This hub facilitated closed-cabinet operation via and broadened compatibility with IP-enabled devices. Concurrently, Logitech expanded into smart home integration through partnerships enabling IP control, such as with for automated lighting scenes tied to entertainment activities starting that year, followed by for multi-room audio management in 2014. During the mid-2010s, the line reached its height of popularity, with the MyHarmony database supporting over 270,000 devices from more than 6,000 brands through regular software updates that added compatibility for new models annually. These enhancements underscored the platform's growth in functionality, solidifying its role as a versatile hub for home entertainment and until 2020.

Discontinuation and Legacy

In April 2021, announced it would cease manufacturing new universal remotes, attributing the decision to reduced demand driven by the proliferation of streaming services and voice-activated controls, which diminished the need for traditional physical remotes. The company emphasized that represented a small portion of its business—approximately 6% the size of its keyboard segment—and committed to ongoing support, including software updates, app access for setup and management, database expansions for new devices, and warranty services, for as long as customers continued using the products. Remaining inventory of existing models was made available through retailers throughout 2021, after which no new units were produced. Logitech committed to ongoing cloud-based services for initial setup and configuration of supported models, with infrared (IR) commands designed to function offline independently of cloud connectivity. As of November 2025, support continues for hub-based systems via the MyHarmony platform. However, on May 28, 2025, the company retired the legacy Harmony Remote Software (version 7.x), ending account creation, access, and reprogramming capabilities for pre-2010 models such as the 300, 500, 600, 700, and 800 series (including specific variants like the 510, 670, 880, and 1100i). As of November 2025, Logitech continues to maintain the MyHarmony database, adding support for new devices, and provides app-based setup for hub models, though legacy non-hub remotes are limited to pre-loaded configurations. These older remotes now operate solely on pre-loaded configurations for basic IR control, without the ability to add devices, update firmware, or modify activities, though hub-based models from 2013 onward remain supported via the MyHarmony website and mobile app. The discontinuation has profoundly shaped the universal remote landscape, paving the way for competitors like SofaBaton to emerge as direct successors, with products such as the and X1S emulating Harmony's activity-based control and multi-device integration to address the market gap. Community-driven initiatives have also arisen to extend Harmony's usability, including open-source projects that reverse-engineer hardware protocols and databases to enable offline programming and modernization of legacy units, such as upgrading the Harmony 880 with Wi-Fi and custom firmware. As of November 2025, Harmony remotes persist in availability through secondary markets like , where premium models command higher prices due to sustained enthusiast demand and their enduring reputation for simplifying home entertainment setups.

Products

Button-Based Models (2005–2009)

The Logitech Harmony line began its button-based era in 2005 with the introduction of the Harmony 520, an entry-level designed for basic home entertainment control. This model supported up to 12 devices through (IR) signals and featured hard buttons for activities and direct device commands, including a and directional pad for navigation. Setup required a USB connection to a PC for configuration via Logitech's online database, which at the time included codes for over 80,000 devices, though users could add custom IR learning for unsupported models. Priced at around $100 at launch, the 520 emphasized affordability and simplicity, with an ergonomic, compact design suited for couch-based use without relying on visual displays beyond a small LCD for basic menus. Later in 2005, the Harmony 880 advanced the series by incorporating a 128x160 color LCD screen for improved while retaining prominent hard buttons for core functions like volume, channel, and activity selection. It supported up to 15 devices and introduced a rechargeable with a , eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements and enhancing portability. The remote's hourglass-shaped and backlit hard buttons improved in low-light environments, and it maintained IR learning capabilities alongside database-driven setup via USB. Launched at approximately $250, the 880 marked Logitech's first in-house design effort, focusing on intuitive activity-based control to streamline switching between devices like TVs, DVD players, and receivers. The Harmony 1000, introduced in , featured a more advanced monochrome LCD with a customizable "favorites" row for quick access to frequently used commands, complementing its array of hard buttons for up to 15 devices. The remote incorporated IR learning and RF extension options, with a and USB-based programming that drew from Logitech's comprehensive IR code library. Its split layout separated navigation buttons from activity controls for better one-handed operation, and it launched at $500, targeting users seeking expanded customization without full reliance. The Harmony 890 Pro, released in 2005, refined with fully backlit hard buttons and a color LCD, supporting 15 devices via IR with optional RF for multi-room setups. The 890 Pro's and improved longevity, and its glow button activated backlighting for dark-room navigation, all configured through PC software. Priced at $449, it focused on professional-grade reliability for home theaters. The Harmony 1100, launched in , represented a split-remote with a stationary base acting as an RF hub and IR blaster for multi-room control, paired with a portable controller featuring hard buttons and a small LCD. This design supported up to 15 devices across rooms without direct line-of-sight, using USB setup and the device database for IR codes and learning. At around $500, it prioritized wired reliability and couch ergonomics, though its base required placement near equipment. Overall, these button-based models relied on physical buttons for primary interactions, IR/RF transmission, and PC USB configuration, accommodating up to 15 devices through Logitech's database of IR codes while allowing custom learning for gaps. They lacked Wi-Fi or app integration, focusing instead on robust, screen-minimal hardware for intuitive activity switching in traditional setups. Pricing ranged from $100 to $500, with designs optimized for comfortable, extended use from a seated position. This era laid groundwork for later touchscreen evolutions by emphasizing programmable macros and device harmony, though later button models like the Harmony 650 (2010, supporting 8 devices with RF and color LCD, launched at $99.99) extended the approach into the next decade.

Touchscreen Models (2010–2012)

The Logitech Harmony touchscreen models introduced between 2010 and 2012 represented a transitional phase in the product line, building on earlier designs by incorporating color LCD for enhanced navigation while retaining physical buttons for core functions. These remotes emphasized activity-based control, allowing users to initiate predefined sequences like "Watch TV" that powered on multiple devices and switched inputs automatically. Priced in the mid-range at $200 to $350, they targeted consumers upgrading from basic universal remotes, offering improved intuitiveness without requiring a separate hub. The Harmony One, released in 2008, was an early model with a 2.5-inch color LCD, contoured backlit hard buttons, and support for up to 15 devices via IR. It featured a lasting a week and USB setup, priced at $249.99, bridging button and touch eras with activity icons and favorites. The Harmony 900, released in late 2009 and widely available in 2010, featured a 2.4-inch color alongside contoured backlit buttons for better visibility in low light. It supported RF connectivity via an included , enabling control of hidden devices from up to away, and came with two mini IR blaster extenders to boost signal reach within enclosed spaces. The remote could handle up to 15 devices and supported numerous activities, with a providing 1 to 2 weeks of use depending on activity frequency. Priced at $399.99, it addressed line-of-sight issues. The Harmony Touch, launched in 2012 but previewed in late 2011, introduced capacitive technology with swipe gestures for smoother navigation on its 2.4-inch color display, complemented by 27 backlit physical buttons and up to 50 customizable favorites icons for quick channel or app access. It omitted RF capability to streamline the design, relying on direct IR line-of-sight, but maintained support for up to 15 devices and 48 activities, with a built-in lasting approximately 1 week under typical use. Users praised its stylish, compact form factor and ease of setup via PC software, though some noted the screen size felt limiting for detailed menus compared to tablet-style alternatives. The Harmony 1100i, an evolution of the 2009 model still prominent in 2011 sales, featured a larger 3.5-inch full-color in a tablet-like form with an integrated charging dock, supporting RF for extended range and up to 15 devices through its activity-oriented interface. It allowed customization of screens, icons, and commands, including a favorites menu for streamlined access, and offered battery life of 1 to 2 weeks on a single charge. Marketed at around $350 to $500, it appealed to users seeking a more immersive touch experience, with feedback highlighting its luxurious build but critiquing the all-touch reliance for rapid inputs.

Hub and App-Controlled Models (2013–2021)

The Logitech Harmony Hub and app-controlled models marked a shift toward centralized, wireless control systems, integrating (IR), , and technologies to manage home entertainment and smart home devices without line-of-sight limitations for the remote itself. Introduced in 2013, this generation relied on a compact hub as the core component, which connected to the user's network and relayed commands from a companion remote or , enabling activity-based across multiple devices. These models expanded on prior touchscreen remotes by emphasizing hub-mediated control, allowing users to customize up to 50 activities such as "Watch TV" or "Play Music," which sequentially powered on/off devices and adjusted settings with a single press. The foundational device in this lineup was the Harmony Hub, launched in June 2013 as a standalone extender priced at $99.99, designed primarily for app-based operation via or Android smartphones and tablets. It featured built-in IR emitters, connectivity, and integration, supporting control of up to 15 devices and 50 favorite channels through the Harmony app. Subsequent models paired the hub with physical remotes for enhanced usability. The Harmony Ultimate, released in late 2013, combined the hub with a 2.4-inch color remote offering swipe-and-tap navigation, motion-activated backlit keys, and RF communication to the hub, priced at $349.99. In 2014, the button-only Harmony Companion remote was introduced alongside the hub for $129.99, providing customizable physical buttons for users preferring tactile controls over touchscreens, while maintaining full app compatibility. The Harmony Elite, unveiled in 2017, refined this approach with a rechargeable Li-Ion battery in its 2.4-inch QVGA remote, offering up to 72 hours of use and integration with voice assistants like for hands-free operation. Priced at $349.99, it included two IR mini blasters for extended reach. The hub across these models handled IR signal blasting with sufficient power to cover an average room, extendable to multiple zones or closed cabinets via the included mini blasters, which connected directly to the hub's ports. and enabled seamless app control from anywhere in the home, while customizable buttons on remotes like the Companion and allowed personalization for up to 50 activities. Advanced features included IR learning capability for over 270,000 devices from more than 6,000 brands, ensuring broad compatibility without manual coding. Integration extended to thousands of smart home devices, supporting ecosystems like , , and Nest through the hub's network connectivity, with automation sequences that adjusted , thermostats, and audio alongside AV components. Pricing ranged from $99.99 for the standalone hub to approximately $350 for premium bundles like the and , reflecting the added value of physical remotes and accessories. The last major release occurred in 2017 with the , followed by minor updates and inventory sales through 2021, after which ceased manufacturing the line. Following discontinuation in 2021, Harmony Hub-based models retained core functionality for configured setups, with offline IR control via the hub and direct Bluetooth commands continuing to operate without cloud dependency. However, cloud-reliant features such as initial setup, device database updates, and remote reconfiguration ended on May 28, 2025, limiting new users and preventing modifications to existing systems. Supported models like the Hub, Companion, , and could still perform pre-configured activities locally, preserving basic operation for legacy installations.

Accessories and Variants

Logitech Harmony offered several accessories to extend the functionality of its universal remotes, particularly for overcoming physical barriers in home entertainment setups. The IR mini blasters, small infrared emitters that connect to the Harmony Hub, were designed to relay control signals to devices hidden inside closed cabinets or enclosures, supporting up to five separate zones for targeted IR distribution. These blasters were included in packages for models like the Harmony Elite, which came with two units, and could be positioned near devices such as AV receivers or Blu-ray players to ensure reliable signal transmission without direct line-of-sight from the remote. For earlier radio frequency-capable remotes from 2008 to 2009, such as the Harmony 890 and 1000 series, the RF Wireless Extender provided extended range control up to through walls and , allowing users to operate hidden components from another room. Touchscreen models, including the Harmony Touch and One, utilized dedicated charging docks or cradles to recharge their built-in batteries, often bundled with an for convenient desktop placement and automatic charging upon docking. Among the variants, the Harmony Link, introduced in 2011, served as a -to-IR bridge that enabled older IR-based Harmony remotes to integrate with mobile apps for wireless control over home networks, effectively upgrading legacy setups to app-driven operation. The Smart Keyboard, launched in 2014, was a accessory featuring a full keyboard layout with an integrated , specifically for efficient text input during streaming app navigation and Harmony activity control, compatible with up to eight devices via the Hub. In 2019, the Harmony Pro Hub (model 2400) emerged as an enterprise-oriented variant with Ethernet connectivity and (PoE) support, facilitating professional installations in multi-zone environments without relying solely on . Most accessories demonstrated broad compatibility across Harmony generations, with IR mini blasters working seamlessly with Hub-based models to boost signals in enclosed spaces, while the RF extender was limited to specific RF-enabled units. Pricing for these items typically ranged from $20 for basic IR blasters to $100 for specialized variants like the Smart Keyboard, though all were discontinued alongside the main product line in 2021; as of 2025, they remain functional in offline mode without cloud dependencies. These add-ons found niche applications in multi-room audio-video distributions and integrations with non-standard equipment, such as projectors in dedicated home theaters, enhancing overall system flexibility.

Features

Core Control Mechanisms

The Logitech Harmony remotes primarily utilized (IR) transmission for controlling home devices, requiring a direct line of sight between the remote and the target device to send commands effectively. This IR-based system operated within standard carrier frequencies of 30-60 kHz, enabling compatibility with a wide range of . To accommodate devices not in the built-in database, Harmony included a learning mode that allowed the remote to capture and store custom IR codes from an original device's remote by pointing it at the Harmony during setup via the accompanying software. A key innovation in Harmony remotes was activity-based programming, which simplified multi-device operation by sequencing multiple IR commands into predefined activities rather than requiring individual button presses for each device. For instance, selecting the "Watch TV" activity would automatically power on the television, activate the , and switch the input source on the cable box or satellite receiver, streamlining the across interconnected systems. This approach reduced complexity in setups involving several components, allowing users to focus on content rather than device management. Harmony remotes supported a maximum of 15 devices per account or configuration, depending on the model, which encompassed entertainment components like TVs, receivers, and media players. Within activities, macro delays were adjustable to account for varying power-on and power-off response times among devices, typically set between 2 and 5 seconds to ensure sequential commands executed reliably without overlap. Users could fine-tune these inter-device delays through the remote's settings menu or software, selecting options like power-on delay adjustments to match specific hardware behaviors. To enhance signal reliability in obstructed environments, such as behind cabinet doors, Harmony incorporated IR repeaters and mini blasters—small wired emitters connected to the remote or hub—that extended the IR signal to hidden devices. Later hub-based models featured built-in blasters capable of emitting signals in multiple directions by reflecting off room surfaces, creating a broader "blast pattern" to cover an entire space without line-of-sight dependency. Basic troubleshooting for Harmony remotes often involved battery optimization and IR code verification to maintain performance. Batteries, typically rechargeable lithium-ion in touchscreen models, could be conserved by enabling energy-saving modes that dimmed screens or reduced backlight usage during inactivity, extending life to several days to a week under normal conditions; non-touchscreen models using AA batteries could last up to a year. For IR issues, the setup software provided tools to verify and test learned s by simulating command transmission and checking device responses, allowing users to relearn or adjust problematic signals during configuration.

Integration and Automation

The Logitech Harmony series extended its core infrared (IR) control capabilities through hybrid integrations with smart home protocols, enabling IP-based commands for devices from brands such as Nest, Lutron, and Samsung SmartThings. For instance, Harmony hubs communicated with Lutron Caséta lights and Serena shades via Wi-Fi, allowing users to adjust lighting as part of entertainment activities. Similarly, integration with Samsung SmartThings involved connecting through the Harmony app and an internet-enabled SmartThings Bridge, facilitating control of compatible smart devices alongside AV equipment. Nest thermostats were initially supported via IP control starting in 2014, though this functionality was discontinued in 2022 due to changes in Nest's API certification. Voice assistant support further enhanced Harmony's automation potential, with native integrations for and introduced from 2016 onward. Users could issue commands like "Alexa, watch TV" to initiate Harmony activities, which powered on devices and switched inputs via the hub's cloud connection. integration routed commands through both Google and Logitech servers to the Wi-Fi-connected Harmony Hub, enabling similar activity control. Apple HomeKit support was limited, requiring third-party hubs or bridges like Homebridge for compatibility, rather than direct native implementation. Automation features allowed users to create custom if-then logic through the Harmony app and external services like , where applets could trigger activities based on conditions such as geofencing. For example, entering a home geofence via the could activate a "Watch Movie" activity, automatically dimming Lutron lights and starting the TV. supported up to 50 activities with conditional branches, enabling sequences like dimming lights upon movie start while incorporating smart home triggers for enhanced routines. Compatibility expanded significantly over time, with the Harmony database growing to support over 270,000 devices from more than 6,000 brands by the late , including growing support for IP-controllable devices. This encompassed streaming services like , integrated via API-driven app launches on compatible smart TVs within custom activities, such as switching to the Netflix input and playing content. Following the 2021 discontinuation of , certain features like voice integrations relied on ongoing access, which committed to maintaining as long as users actively employed the devices; however, legacy software support ended on May 28, 2025, impacting reconfiguration of first-generation models, while hub-based systems retained app-based functionality via the MyHarmony platform. As of November 2025, services for supported models remain operational.

User Interface and Ergonomics

The Logitech Harmony remotes employed button layouts optimized for straightforward and one-touch control, centering on activity-based to streamline user interactions. Core hard keys included a 4-way directional pad () for menu scrolling and power buttons for device on/off functions, present across most models from the 2005 Harmony 520 onward. Higher-end variants, such as the Harmony 900 and , featured a customizable favorites row with 6 to 8 programmable buttons, enabling users to map essential commands like channel tuning or playback shortcuts directly for rapid access without menu diving. Screen designs evolved significantly to enhance visual feedback and interaction. Early button-based models from 2005 to 2009 utilized LCD displays that varied from to color, typically 1.5 inches in size with resolutions such as 128x128 or 128x160 pixels, to show contextual commands and battery status. models introduced from 2010, including the Harmony One with its 2.2-inch color LCD (220x176 resolution, 64,000 colors) and the 1100's larger 3.5-inch full-color (320x240 QVGA resolution), supported dynamic icon displays and swipes for intuitive , such as flicking through favorites or activities. Later hub-based remotes like the maintained a 2.4-inch QVGA (320x240) color , balancing portability with responsive touch input. Ergonomic considerations prioritized comfort for prolonged use, with contoured, curved grips molding to the hand and backlit buttons providing visibility in dim environments. Models like the Harmony 670 adopted a peanut-shaped form for natural palm fit, while advanced units such as the featured motion-sensing backlighting that activated on pickup, with all buttons illuminated in adjustable or hues. Weights ranged from 150 to 250 grams for balanced handling—exemplified by the 170-gram Harmony 650 and 163-gram —ensuring fatigue-free operation during extended viewing sessions. The and Android companion apps extended the remote's interface digitally, mirroring physical layouts with virtual buttons and supporting drag-and-drop editing for activities to customize sequences effortlessly. This app-based UI allowed reconfiguration of commands , maintaining consistency between handheld and mobile control while adding features like swipe gestures for volume or channel adjustments. For , entry-level models such as the Harmony 350 incorporated larger, tactile buttons for easier pressing, and interfaces across the line used color-coded icons and navigation keys—such as red, green, yellow, and blue buttons for cable/satellite functions—to facilitate use for diverse users, including those with visual challenges.

Software and Programming

Setup and Configuration Tools

The setup and configuration of Logitech Harmony remotes initially relied on dedicated desktop software for early models. The Harmony Remote Software, available for Windows and macOS, provided a guiding wizard interface that facilitated device addition through USB or serial connections, allowing users to program IR commands and customize functions. This software supported models from 2005 to around 2009, enabling straightforward integration of up to 15 devices per remote via a step-by-step online-linked process. However, Logitech discontinued the Harmony Remote Software in May 2025, rendering it unavailable for new downloads or account creations, though existing installations may retain offline functionality for basic reprogramming if previously synced. From 2010 onward, Logitech shifted to web-based and mobile platforms for broader accessibility. The MyHarmony.com portal, introduced in 2010 and active until the product's full support wind-down, allowed users to configure remotes via web browsers on computers, auto-detecting devices by entering manufacturer names and model numbers to pull pre-programmed IR and IP commands. Mobile apps for iOS and Android, launched in 2013 alongside hub-based models, extended this to smartphones and tablets, supporting connectivity for the Harmony Hub and enabling on-the-go adjustments without a PC. These tools emphasized user-friendly interfaces, with the apps guiding pairings for , , and smart home integrations like or . Central to all configurations was Logitech's cloud-sourced database, which by the late encompassed over 270,000 IR and IP control codes from more than 6,000 brands, ensuring compatibility for most . For unsupported devices, users could employ manual learning modes, where the remote or hub captured signals from original remotes using built-in IR receivers, a process integrated into the setup wizards. This database was continuously updated via Logitech's servers until the support transitions in 2025. The initial configuration process typically began with account creation on MyHarmony.com or the , followed by device pairing—selecting and adding components like TVs, receivers, and streaming devices—and activity mapping, where users defined sequences such as "Watch TV" to automate power-ons, inputs, and volume controls across devices. This streamlined workflow, often completed in 15–30 minutes for basic systems, minimized manual entry by leveraging the database for default commands. For hub models, additional steps included setup and IR blaster placement to extend range. Following the 2021 manufacturing discontinuation, maintained cloud services for existing users, preserving configurations on synced remotes and hubs. The decommissioning of the legacy desktop software on May 28, 2025, eliminated USB-based programming for older non-hub models, making offline setups impossible without prior access for those devices. Hub-based models (e.g., Harmony Elite, ), however, continue to receive official support via the MyHarmony app and services as of November 2025, allowing users to add new devices and reconfigure setups. For legacy models, existing setups remain functional with preserved database pulls, but adding new devices requires community hacks or third-party tools.

Customization and Advanced Programming

Users can create macros, known as button sequences, to execute multiple commands from a single button press, such as powering on a home theater system and switching to the appropriate input. These sequences support customizable delays between commands to ensure devices respond correctly; for instance, inter-device delays can be adjusted from 1 to 10 seconds to account for varying power-on times, while input delays handle signal propagation between components like a TV and receiver. Volume ramps are configurable by adjusting command repeat rates, allowing gradual increases or decreases (e.g., multiple volume-up pulses over time) to avoid abrupt changes, and input switching logic is embedded in activity-based macros to automate source selection, such as directing a Blu-ray player to the AV receiver's port. Advanced customization includes editing IR codes directly in the Harmony software for devices not in the database, where users can input Pronto hex values (e.g., 16 four-character codes per command) by learning signals from original remotes or submitting them to Logitech support for integration. Activity templates provide pre-configured setups for common scenarios, such as a "Watch TV" activity that powers on the TV, receiver, and cable box while setting the receiver to the TV audio input and the TV to the cable input, which users can modify for home theater environments by adding devices like projectors or soundbars. These tools enable precise control, with sequences supporting up to dozens of commands per macro, though complex setups require testing to refine timing. Troubleshooting features include diagnostic modes accessible via the Harmony app, which guide users through step-by-step tests for activity failures, such as verifying power-on sequences or input switching by simulating commands and checking device responses. Signal testing can be performed using the app's troubleshooter to isolate IR emission issues, often by observing the hub's LED indicators or using a camera to detect pulses from the hub or extenders. updates, essential for maintaining compatibility, were last issued in August 2025 for supported hub-based models (e.g., version 10.0.229 for Harmony Hub remotes), addressing and device protocol changes. Hub-based models continue to receive these updates via official channels as of November 2025. Community-driven extensions emerged post-discontinuation, including XML exports of configuration files for backups, allowing users to save and restore custom macros and device setups locally without cloud access. Integration with open-source platforms like is possible via the device's API, enabling automation of Harmony activities (e.g., triggering "Watch Movie" from voice commands or sensors) even after official support ended, though this relies on local network communication rather than servers. These extensions preserve functionality for IR-based control but require technical setup, such as extracting config files from the hub. The end of support for legacy Harmony Remote Software on May 28, 2025, affects only non-hub models, limiting cloud-dependent customizations like remote reconfiguration or database updates for those devices and restricting users to pre-existing local IR macros and sequences. Hub-based models, however, retain full official support for advanced programming and modifications via the MyHarmony platform.

References

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