Abstract: A voice-activated, or voice-operated, remote control is adapted to reduce or eliminate the sound output of one or more entertainment appliances in order quiet the environment and thereby improve the effectiveness and accuracy its voice recognition functions. In one aspect of the present invention, the remote control sends a mute command to an appliance under control and listens for a voice command during an ensuing predetermined time period. In a further aspect of the present invention, the remote control determines which one of a plurality of unmute sequences is to be transmitted.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to facilitate communication between a user and one or more devices which are remote from the user, reduce the number of required button presses and further reduce keystroke errors, by including the functionality to associate a user selected default device with a particular set of buttons. A universal remote control unit suitable for use with various audio/visual entertainment devices may embody various aspects of the present invention.