This posting is older than 6 months and can contain outdated information.
The MacBook Pro Retina physically lacks the ability to receive Apple Remote IR commands as it does not have a built-in Apple IR Receiver.
Please take a look at https://www.iospirit.com/products/remotebuddy/hardware/ for a list of hardware supported by Remote Buddy.
If you're interested in a particular remote and want to know whether it'll work with your Mac, take a look at the devices listed under "Required Receiver" in the respective remote's spec sheet. If your Mac has that receiver (or you connect that receiver to it), the remote will work.
The MacBook Pro Retina is compatible with all listed USB receivers. Remote Buddy supplies drivers where necessary.
To keep using an Apple Remote with your MacBook Pro Retina, IMO the best solution (functionality and price) right now is:
- Remote Buddy (free trial at https://www.iospirit.com/products/remotebuddy/download/ )
- Twisted Melon Manta TR1 (http://twistedmelon.com/shop/ - "Manta TR1 (Recvr Only)" for $19.99)
- an Apple Remote (but you already seem to have that ;-)
Hope that helps.