As Apple’s iPad continues to emerge as a potentially major device in the control and media server sectors, we’re starting to hear about new ways to incorporate it into your home as more than just a portable device.

Toward that end, iPort, which was a pioneer when it came to in-wall docking systems for the iPod, will start shipping similar products for the iPod touch and iPad this month.

The company has introduced its Control Mount Series for both products, which covers the devices in a wall-mounted chassis with a magnetically attached, rectangular fascia to turn them into in-wall touchscreens. The products are the CM-IW100T (CM100) Control Mount for the iPod touch and the CM-IW2000 (CM2000) for the iPad.

The CM100 lets you use the iPod touch as a touchscreen controller and music streamer of both stored tunes and audio from the device’s apps. Of course, as a touchscreen similar to that of automation companies, depending on your apps you can use the iPod touch or iPad for audio, video, lighting and climate controls.

You can have the Control Mounts be installed vertically or horizontally, naturally, as the Apple devices work either way—you may want to see what is easier and makes more sense for navigating your most-used apps before installation.

Prices are $250 for the CM100 and $499 for the CM2000.

Arlen Schweiger - Editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen writes about home technology installations and product news and reviews for electronichouse.com and Electronic House magazine.