I'm expecting we'll be able to assign the number pad, channel, volume, input, and power buttons to whatever devices we have. Nintendo does beta test their software, and they are aware that people have cable/satellite boxes, DVRs, audio receivers, etc. in all sorts of different combinations. I happen to think the easiest way to go about it would be through IR learning, where it simply prompts you for each button.
Actually if you look at the power button, it and the input button are surrounded by chrome that states 'TV'. But let's disregard that for a moment.
Earlier we were discussing how one would actually program this for their remotes. You mentioned as a possibility direct (archaic) IR learning. While I hate that in general, if what's been shown is the extent of the commands available it will work fine since it's so few in number.
But that's the problem. If this is all there is it's useless as a universal remote. While not everyone needs to go into all their settings or have a ton of intermediary devices (switchers, processors, etc), there are some deeper commands that many people use pretty regularly. Stuff like toggling game mode on their TV, changing surround/stereo modes on their receiver, etc.
Based on what's shown you won't even be able to switch between TV and receiver volume (a pretty common use-case ... many people don't always use their stereo). Hell this doesn't even show the ability to turn on a receiver. So even for most people with a relatively simple setup, this doesn't look useful (at least yet).
While I wouldn't expect things to be feature complete (or even working) at this stage, typically you would at least see some placeholders in the UI mockup for the extended functionality I'm talking about. Either device names, next/back/whatever to go to other command screens ... something. The fact that isn't there at all is what raises some concern as a SW engineer.
EDIT: Also, keep in mind, that remote screen isn't necessarily what the final will look like. In fact, we already know the Gamepad itself isn't in it's final retail form - Reggie says the charge port will be moved to the bottom.
Yes certainly. And I really hope it does improve. I'm simply saying that based on what's been shown thus far, it's only going to be useful for a tiny percentage of people. Basically at best people will be able to use it for repeat situations where they're essentially doing the same thing as the last time they operated the TV and console. Once you deviate though, it's hosed. In other words you'll need to keep all your remotes within arm length anyway.
From my understanding the HW involved in this was already going to be there for other uses. Well at least the Rx would be. I'm not sure stuff like the balance board has two-way communication (which would require a Tx), but it's very likely the cost is essentially the same for a two-way versus a one-way.
In other words, it doesn't look like they are paying extra money to have this capability there ... which brings into question just how invested they are in actually getting capable functionality. As it stands, it looks to simply be a 'because we can' feature. And if things don't change, it will not be useful for most people.
