At first glance, I thought “Oh, hey, a gimmicky remote with an ESPN logo” but after I started reading about it, it dawned on me that this thing is perfect for sports addicts. It’s basically a universal remote that controls all your A/V stuff, sure, but it also has built-in Wi-Fi and can update real-time scores and stats on the 2.2-inch QVGA screen.

The ESPN Ultimate Remote is the sports fan’s ultimate companion. Clear the clutter off your coffee table with a universal remote designed not only to unify your existing remotes by controlling virtually countless devices, but to wirelessly download program guides, sports scores and play-by-plays, and more. As you watch the big game, get advanced team and player stats right on your remote. Get up-to-the-minute scores from all the latest games. Even keep up to date with your ESPN.com fantasy teams without ever leaving the couch.

You can also get weather info, news, TV listings, and even send text messages. Text messages!

There’s also a built-in ambient light sensor which automatically adjusts the control’s brightness and you can control up to 18 devices.

It’s available for pre-order on Amazon for $299 and should be released “just in time for Father’s Day”.

ESPN “The Ultimate Remote” Universal Remote [Amazon.com]