It sounded easier than it turned out to be. Still, it wasn’t hard to figure out. And it delivered everything it promised. I’m talking about a tantalizing app called LogMeIn Ignition, a marvelous little app that is part of the LogMeIn suite of products that allow users to remotely access, log into and control their computers from any PC, tablet or mobile device. When I first read about it, immediate uses sprang to mind. Forgot to update that InDesign file, PDF it and send it to your client? No problem, whip out your iPhone, log into your home computer, fire up InDesign, adjust the file, export the PDF and email it, all from the comfort of your bar stool or picnic blanket. And surprise of surprises, this let’s you do just that, among many other things.
You do need to download and install LogMeIn’s free software on any computer you plan to access. The app itself isn’t free ($29.99 in the iTunes store where I got mine). However, the basic service is free. You can upgrade to a variety of pro levels, but you don’t have to. For an individual, the free level is enough. Once you’ve set up your free account, you can log into it via the app. That delivers you into your computer where you will still need to log in to your user account to fully access it. Once inside you can either go right to the monitor view, navigate through a folder and file hierarchy to access and transfer files, or check the information screen on the computer.
In the monitor mode there are a host of multitouch commands to help you scroll, pinch zoom and use the cursor to click buttons. Tools at the bottom of the screen deploy an easy to use keyboard with clearly marked command, control, option and shift buttons. More than one monitor? Three fingers left or right to toggle between them. It takes a little getting used to, especially on an iPhone like the one I have, but it works and it works well. In the hierarchical mode, you can work your way through folders to a file you want, open it if you have the appropriate app in your device, copy, move, rename, even delete the file.
The interface is slick and for the most part intuitive. LogMeIn gets major kudos for a simple list of multitouch gestures that pops up when you first log into your computer. That’s a huge help. On a small screen it can be a bit awkward and challenging to navigate in monitor mode, but the results are surprisingly accurate. I have to say for the Appy Awards I get to load up and test drive a lot of stuff, most of which I play with for a while and dismiss. However, I am happy to report that LogMeIn Ignition is a keeper and well deserving of it’s nearly five-star rating in the iTunes Store.
