August Release For Sonic Screwdriver Remote Control

The universal remote control based on the Eleventh Doctor's sonic screwdriver will be available to buy in the UK from Friday 31st August, the BBC announced today.

As previously reported, the device, pictured here from the side and front, has been developed by BBC Worldwide in conjunction with The Wand Company.

The high-quality metal replica of the Mark VII sonic screwdriver is a gesture-based remote control that uses infra-red technology to manipulate almost all home-entertainment systems - from TVs and iPod docks to DVD/Blu-ray players and beyond.

With a green flashing tip and four modes – including a practice mode – and three memory banks, a total of 39 commands can be stored, giving users the option of operating multiple home-entertainment devices.

The sonic screwdriver universal remote control works via a series of 13 short gestures, such as rotating, flicking, or tapping, and a guided set-up procedure uses spoken prompts to match gestures to commands learnt from existing remote controls. In addition, the FX operational mode has a range of authentic vintage Doctor Who sound effects, while an in-built security setting comprising a three-digit PIN will prevent unauthorised use of the device.

UPDATE (7pm): A BBC spokeswoman told Doctor Who News that the remote control will be available to pre-order in the UK from the BBC Shop (coming soon), Firebox, and Forbidden Planet. DWN understands that the product will be available in the USA via the BBC America Shop and ThinkGeek from September.