FYI - DirecTV deal with UEI

[Arclight]

DIRECTV ADOPTS UNIVERSAL ELECTRONICS REMOTE
Universal Electronics Inc. on July 19 announced its
agreement with DIRECTV Inc to supply UEI's patented
connectivity software in DIRECTV remote controls
through 2005. DIRECTV, which has more than 12.6
million customers, has chosen UEI's technology to
ensure that customers can easily operate their various
home entertainment systems (e.g., DVD player, audio,
television) via the DIRECTV remote.

Maybe this means future DirecTV remotes will incorporate the JP1 interface? Thomson just signed a huge deal with DirecTV and also acquired Hughes' satellite box business (the manufacturing end).

Maybe this will also mean some of the JP1 technology will filter its way back into Thomson's RCA-branded remotes, with any luck.

[Mark Pierson]

Maybe this means future DirecTV remotes will incorporate the JP1 interface?

Unless they go with one of the new FlashROM remotes that aren't JP1 compatible (at least currently).

[classicsat]

The way I hear ir is that they will make the blue UEIC remote the official DirecTV remote.

[RonL]

The new UEIC remote for DirecTV has two circular sets of buttons; the top is for DVRs, and the bottom is for menu navigation. According to Multichannel News (which has a picture), this remote will be used with all future DirecTV STBs and DVRs. It is also the first DirecTV remote with red, green, yellow, and blue buttons for the new interactive features that will debut with DirecTV's next-generation receivers in October/November.

You can see a picture of the new, standardized DirecTV remote on page 14 of this PDF.

[RonL]

Here's another picture of the new DirecTV remote. The old blue remote is being discontinued.

[RonL]

Does someone know if these are JP1 compatible?

I found someone online that sells them, but they want $35 plus shipping.

If anyone is willing to order one to test, please send me a PM.

[The Robman]

One of my sources at UEI tells me that this remote lacks both an EEPROM and a 6-pin, and I don't think there are spots on the PCB for them either. Furthermore, it uses the old RC16 processor, which is definitely NOT too sexy for your shirt!