Learning from DirecTV

The NYTimes reveals the details of a secret deal between TiVo and Comcast to bring our favorite DVR to set-tops all across America's largest cable company. The surprising outcome: TiVo Chairman Michael Ramsey pulled the plug. He rejected Comcast's terms when they offered too little cash flow and demanded too much control. While the boss is credited with keeping TiVo on the cutting edge of geekdom -- thereby shoring up its hardcore fanbase -- the company's board is reportedly growing weary of the go-it-alone strategy and is seeking a new CEO who can play nice with the cable companies.