What surprised me was the change of habbits that was introduced after using the computer (HTPC) in stead of the TV. During the presidential debates last year, we saw them on the web, and used the web during and after to get more information. It was much more rich and interactive.

I see a HUGE need for applications like these. I tried a similar application on iPhone: intelliremote. Worked well, but there is still some work needed before they get truly useful.

There is a ton of opportunity and room for innovation in this space.

I have an LCD tv with an HDMI input and a laptop with an HDMI out. I often use Hulu, Sling.com, or ABC.com to watch on demand video. The problem is that, especially on ABC.com, when a commercial comes up in the middle of the program you then have to get up and walk across the room to hit “Play” again. I tried a wireless usb mouse, but it was too far. I’m sure a bluetooth mouse and keyboard would do the trick, but who wants to have that next to the bed if you don’t have to. So, I use this for everything. It works amazingly well. If I’m done watching a show and ABC I can type in Hulu.com and select what I want to watch there. All with something about the size of a normal remote that is ALWAYS with me anyway.