While opening up two-way control and surrendering the UI to its perceived over-the-top video-providing enemy could change pay-TV as we know it, the trade-off is Google TV compatibility could give 'em the competitive edge they need.

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It has an RS-232 port which can offer two way control over all kinds of devices.

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Assuming the three-way merger goes ahead, the new group and its two nearest rivals combined will control a little over 10% of the market, paltry compared with the concentration in other basic industries.

ECONOMIST: The steel industry