Apple accessory firm FastMac have joined forces with Umee to create another solution for changing your iPhone into a universal remote control.  Most recently we’ve looked at the RedEye Dock and the L5 Remote plug-in module, just two of the alternatives out there, but FastMac have gone down another route for their option, converting an extended battery case instead.

Called the iV Plus, it appears to be a modified version of their iV case with an infrared transmitter added to the casing.  This way, the battery can keep your iPhone charged while you’re using it as a remote, and you won’t have a dock or sticky-out module to contend with either.

Umee’s part has been on the app side.  Just like other similar options, the app will already have manufacturer’s remote codes installed, and once they have been added you’ll be able to delete keys you never use and end up with a streamlined interface which suits you perfectly.

Of course, you can remove the case when you’re done but if you do decide to keep it on, the iV Plus has an LED flash unit for the camera and if the spec remains similar to the regular FastMac iV, then it’ll return up to 24 hours talktime or 750 hours of standby.

Wired took a look at a pre-production unit at Macworld, but found the iV Plus was only operating televisions at that point, something we presume will be fixed by the time it’s released during Q2 this year.  The only downside – as with most other iPhone remote options – is the price, which will be $130.  The app will be free, though!