I think there are some good points here, but 1) Tivo was different from VCRs, which were used mostly for pre-recorded content, cost far less, and had no recurr

I think there are some good points here, but 1) Tivo was different from VCRs, which were used mostly for pre-recorded content, cost far less, and had no recurring fees (except tape rentals) 2) the value chain: mobile phone networks compete, and accepted a symbiotic relationship with branded, value added devices on their network. If the other network has a better device, you better get it too. Cable companies are a local monopoly, and don't compete by having exclusives with branded boxes. They saw Tivo as a threat and integrated the functionality in their service and settop boxes.