Griffin Technology's AirClick remote control for iPod and iPod mini is about as close as you can get to the perfectly designed iPod accessory. AirClick plugs into the top of your 3G/4G iPod or iPod mini and gives you the ability to play, pause, skip forward/backward, and adjust volume from a distance. For iPod owners who frequently listen to their music through a home stereo, the AirClick is a natural companion that also proves its mettle in your car and other applications.

AirClick remote, receiver, and remote cradle

Operating the AirClick is literally plug-and-play; not a page of documentation is included with the device. Along with the receiver module, which features a pass-through headphone jack so you can listen to your tunes as you normally would, and the remote, a small remote cradle with velcro straps is included to secure your iPod to your car's steering wheel, your bike's stem, or anywhere else. This is in addition to the the remote's built-in clip for attaching it to yourself.

Griffin claims the AirClick's range is "up to 60 feet," a rather generous estimate in my testing. In my steel-framed domicile the range was closer to 15 feet, not surprising given the wall's ability to devour AirPort signals and the like (AirClick uses RF signals so it doesn't require line-of-sight like IR controls). Outdoors with no obstructions the range remained nearly the same, however, at about 15-20 feet regardless of how the AirClick or remote were oriented.

AirClick detail

Inflated range numbers aside, the AirClick is otherwise flawless, releasing the user from the tether of their iPod for basic controls in an affordable package that sells direct for about $40 and closer to $25 elsewhere.

AirClick is available for 3G/4G iPods and iPod mini. A new dock-connector AirClick, compatible with 4G/5G and iPod minis, will start shipping in early November. Along with expanding support for Apple's new video iPod, the dock-connector AirClick also leaves the top headphone jack open, so you'll be able to use devices that occupy that spot in tandem, such as Griffin's iTrip FM tuner. Griffin also makes a version of AirClick for computers, extending your control of iTunes, PowerPoint, and other applications.

AirClick for iPod mini and iPod