Here’s a look at the future of universal remotes

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Ray.coCustomizing your own home theater is quite the endeavor in 2016. We’re living at a time where many have a television, cable box, stereo system, media streamer, and video game console included in their setup. Getting all of those systems to work together can be a painstaking task — one that might force you to juggle four different remotes to switch between Netflix and "Game of Thrones" on a Sunday night.

The simplest solution to this problem is to invest in a quality universal remote. We’ve highlighted different models before, specifically from Logitech, the brand that has dominated this niche market for quite some time. And while Logitech still is the go-to choice for consumers looking for a quick, easy, and relatively cheap way to alleviate their multiple-remote woes, a new high-end universal remote, the Ray Super Remote, has attracted attention recently as a noteworthy competitor.

The most notable difference between the Ray remote and its Logitech counterparts is its touchscreen. While the high-end models from Logitech feature a small touchscreen at the top of the remote, the Ray’s entire front is touch-enabled, providing a colorful and customizable experience for the consumer. But beyond aesthetics, reviews have also noted that the Ray's setup process is simpler than the competition.

One of the most exciting features I’ve found regarding the Ray Super Remote is its discovery function, which acts as a sort of Netflix-esque recommendation system based on your viewing preferences and offers curated lists of content for different categories. The potential for this type of feature is fantastic — I dream of a future where my remote will alert me to switch back to the game because halftime is over. (I'm a man of simple dreams.)

While the Ray Super Remote does not yet have the brand recognition of its more established competition, it’s definitely something worth keeping an eye on. It's an expensive upgrade, but for anyone who's been looking to simplify their home entertainment system and has been dissatisfied with Logitech's offerings for one reason or another, there's another company to turn to.

Ray Super Remote - Touchscreen Universal Remote, $249, available at Amazon.