Electronics specialist Favite has been demonstrating the latest advancement in RFID technology by changing TV channels with a battery-less remote control.

Using a passive RFIS tag to send a signal to the television at, the remote works by collecting energy from a two-watt induction field generated by the idiot box every few seconds.

Favite admits that not everyone would like a high-powered transmitter in there living room, so it’s suggested that a rechargeable version could be made that uses a button cell, which would give up to ten years of life.

Most remotes use infra red which works by line of sight, and is pretty cheap to manufacture, but Favite’s RFID controller could prove an even cheaper option, say the company.

Wireless remotes are common for stereos such as the Sony Bravia which uses Zigbee-based remotes at 2.4Ghz. Favite believes that not only is their technology cheaper, its also thinner than infrared.

Ok, so its not the most groundbreaking story, but according to RFID Journal, big name companies will be adopting Favite’s battery saving technology. But I have to ask how often do you need to change your batteries? Is this just a case of needless technology or is it more about saving the environment?