Television manufacturer Sony and the National Cable and Telecommunications Association signed an agreement this week that will allow viewers to rid themselves of set-top boxes, yet still
receive advanced "two-way" cable services using their TV remote control.
The cable companies and consumer electronics firms have feuded for a decade about how to deliver cable
service, while allowing customers to buy their own cable equipment. The agreement involves the nation's six largest cable companies serving more than 82% of cable subscribers.
Previously, those subscribers needed cable set-top boxes to enjoy video on demand, on-screen channel guides and cable company-provided digital video.