TiVo KO's Echostar in DVR Fight

TWICE Magazine is reporting that digital video recording pioneer TiVo has won a patent lawsuit against Echostar COmmunications - owner of DISH Network. According to TWICE, Echostar must pay TiVo $74 million in damages. The lawsuit was centered around Echostar's dual tuner capabilities, which allows one channel to record while watching another on the same television. Echostar says they will appeal the decision.

TWICE is also reporting that TiVo and DirecTV have reached an agreement that extends a service and support contract for TiVo and DirecTV equipment.

My Thoughts: I wish I bought stock in TiVo when they had the shortest stack at the table a few months ago. This victory is sure to give them momentum heading into the next few years. It's coindidental that TiVo and DirecTV announce an extension to a contract many thought would be dead since DirecTV is likely to stop selling TiVo-brand equipment in favor of their own products. However, moments like these are just too tough to pass up if you're DirecTV...you know, an opportunity to dance beside the fallen body of your enemy while high-fiving the people that put them on the floor. This is good stuff.