Apr 16, 2002
Universal Electronics Inc. (UEI) announced today that Cox Communications Inc. , the nation's fifth largest multiple system operator (MSO) and a leading provider of broadband communications products, has selected UEI as a preferred provider of digital wireless controls for its digital set-top box deployments. This initiative builds on the relationship between Cox and UEI and, among other development initiatives, includes delivery of the UEI-designed and developed custom remote control and wireless keyboard. These products provide Cox's digital cable customers with an easy-to-use branded user interface for superior access to and interoperability of interactive content and for control of other home entertainment devices.
"UEI's expertise in wireless control technologies comes through in the design and development of the new digital remote," said Vincent Groff, manager of iTV product strategy for Cox. "We look forward to working with UEI as we continue to strive to offer our customers the best of the digital experience."
The custom digital remote solution, already delivered to some Cox customers, features a distinctive hourglass figure for ergonomic comfort; the ability to control up to four devices from a universal library of television, VCR, DVD, personal video recorder (PVR) and audio device codes; and complete compatibility with both the Motorola and Scientific Atlanta digital set-top boxes that Cox provides its customers. UEI also will provide Cox wireless keyboards with universal remote control functionality to further complement Cox's services. Both products feature UEI's world-class database of infrared (IR) codes and multimedia protocols for optimal interoperability of multiple devices. Advanced features such as permanent memory retention also improve the end-user experience by ensuring that the customer's device setups are never lost.
The announcement marks a significant milestone in the relationship for the two veteran leaders of their respective industries. For Cox, the UEI-designed digital remote is its first custom wireless control product designed specifically to complement its digital cable services. For UEI, the delivery of this remote control solution not only furthers its market share in the digital cable market, but also illustrates its continuing leadership in wireless control technologies.
"Simplifying the user experience and access to the enhanced content that digital cable provides has clearly become a competitive must for attracting and retaining digital cable customers," said Paul Arling, UEI chairman and CEO. "We are pleased to be able to provide Cox with a custom solution utilizing key UEI technologies that help differentiate and enhance the end-user experience. It is exciting for us to partner with Cox Communications as it continues to seed new innovations on the interactive-television front."
About Cox Communications
Cox Communications Inc., a Fortune 500 company, serves approximately 6.2 million customers nationwide, making it the nation's fifth largest cable television company. A full-service provider of telecommunications products, Cox offers an array of services, including Cox Cable; local and long-distance telephone services under the Cox Digital Telephone brand; high-speed Internet access under the brands Cox High Speed Internet, Road Runner and Cox Express; advanced digital video programming services under the Cox Digital Cable brand; and commercial voice and data services via Cox Business Services. Cox is an investor in programming networks including Discovery Channel and The Learning Channel. More information about Cox Communications can be accessed on the Internet at http://www.cox.com/.
About Universal Electronics
Universal Electronics, based in Southern California, develops software and builds and markets preprogrammed, easy-to-use wireless control devices and chips principally for home entertainment equipment and the subscription broadcast market. The company's product lines include such wireless interface technologies as combination keyboard/remotes and touch-screen remotes. UEI licenses its patented technologies and database of infrared codes to companies selling into the cable and satellite industries, and to original equipment manufacturers. The company also sells its universal wireless control products to distributors and retailers in Europe, Asia, Latin America and Australia under the One For All(R) brand name. Call center support services also are offered to UEI's customers. More information can be found at http://www.uei.com/.
NOTE: One For All, Navigator and Millennium 4 are registered trademarks or trademarks of Universal Electronics Inc.
Other product or service names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.
