Thermometer app for the grill

For a good part of the country, outdoor grilling is the furthest thing from the mind. It's cold, it's wet, and it's snowy: three ingredients that don't usually make for a good barbecue. The weather outside may be frightful, but the thought of grilled meats is always delightful, so what is one to do? Grilling requires a hands-on experience regardless of rain, sleet, or snow. So if visions of chicken and chops dance in your head, the only option may be to brave the elements. Unless, of course, you decide to phone it in.

The iGrill is a combination app and thermometer designed for iPhone, iPad, and iPod use. The grill accessory consists of a probe, the base unit, and the free optional app and monitors cooking time and temperature. With a 200-foot range, the Bluetooth-enabled device sets you free from the grill, alerting you when your food needs attention--or when it's time to go back outside to collect the steaks.

Complete with suggested cooking times for different types of meat, the iGrill mimics a traditional meat thermometer. The physical part of the gadget is complementary to the convenience and style of the app; it can hang, stand, or lie flat for unobtrusive use. There is even an additional probe that is available separately, which is a good bet to be put to use--as long as you're going outside.