Portland, Ore. - More than seven out of ten TV viewers polled in a recent survey said they use their remote controls for simple interactive tasks -- like navigating electronic program guides or scheduling recordings -- and a majority of these also showed interest in increased interactivity for reality shows, sports and even commercials.

Englewood, Colo. - EchoStar Communications, operator of the DISH Network satellite TV service, said on Wednesday that it has partnered with interactive video developer Ensequence and Gemstar-TV Guide International on a new interactive TV application, slated to launch in the second quarter. DISH Network subscribers will be able to launch the TV Guide Channel application using their remotes, and receive programming recommendations in up to 10 different categories, as well as set program reminders and digital video recordings.

Portland, Ore. - Ensequence, a developer of software used to create and manage interactive video content across TVs, PCs and mobile devices, announced on Tuesday that it has raised $40 million in its third round of venture capital financing, from an undisclosed private equity firm.