As you might recall, DirecTV essentially severed ties with TiVo to promote its own platform, known as the HR20. We called it The DVR DirecTV Users Hate to Love," which seems to have been accurate; in multiple threads across the Internet, HR20 users griped, moaned, bi***ed, and otherwise complained -- then told us that they were willing to stick it out.

Now, it appears, the HR20's problems are being tacitly acknowledged.

"Launching in early 2008, the new software download will provide these customers with DVR enhancements offered with the TiVo service, including a Recently Deleted Folder and Overlap Protection, as well as DIRECTV's Remote Booking feature," the companies said in a statement. " In addition, DIRECTV and TiVo will continue to explore ways to bring future enhancements to DIRECTV customers with TiVo receivers."