I have a question regarding the use of the two apps and am curious as to your views as where the iCab app is headed (or not headed).
Some background. I have probably around 15-20 Legacy or TMCC (Atlas primarily) engines, and an equal number of MTH DCS 2.0 or 3.0 engines. I will have one maybe two or three Legacy engines that are bluetooth equipped. From a comparison perspective the MTH Wi-Fi is great, I love it. The app is updated on a regular basis, and basically eliminated the use of the remote control.
If I look at Lionel and the TMCC/Odyssey/Legacy engines - you have a lot of engines that do not have bluetooth.
One of the challenges I have with the Cab2 remote is the effective range of the antenna. I have boosted the antenna but I still find I have several spots on my layout that if I am standing, the Cab2 and base don't communicate (OK easy answer don't stand there - got it) because of walls etc.
I like the iCab app but I don't love it. It seems to work in the basic functions on the phone, but the iPad version seems at best primitive, unless you are looking to build a layout. I want to be able to run my trains from the iPad. Around my layout I have basic iPad stands / holders such that I don't have to hold the iPad as I enjoy the trains.
Since I don't have any bluetooth engines yet, I am curious as to what others are doing, as I can't be in that unique of a position, can I?
Regarding the iCab app, the last update was a year ago, while LionChief much more frequent.
Does Lionel have plans to make the LionChief their app to run all their engines? It could be a pay app, like the MTH one is. While the basic MTH is free, the $25 is money well spent. I would think Lionel could follow suit in this. Any announcements?
John
