Ode to the remote control, that tiny box that lets you channel your desires without ever getting up

In the early days of television, changing channels meant getting up and physically adjusting a "dial" on the "television set." This was a tedious process that even today, under forty years of age, may be hard to comprehend. The invention of the TV remote changed everything. The first remote, dubbed "Lazy Bone," debuted in 1950 but lacked wireless capability, leading to tripping hazards.

Five years later, the "Flash-Matic" became the first wireless remote, albeit resembling a firearm and utilizing light signals. The introduction of the "Space Command" in the following year marked a significant leap, employing sound waves instead of light. Early models produced a clicking noise upon button presses, hence the term "clicker."

Infrared signals entered the scene in the 1980s, becoming essential with the rise of cable's multichannel universe. Remote controls had a profound impact on TV programming and consumption. The flow of a network's schedule was critical; the goal was to prevent viewers from changing channels. CBS' 1970s Saturday night lineup, featuring hits like "All in the Family" and "The Carol Burnett Show," was a masterclass in seamless program flow. NBC even toyed with the idea of making Thursday nights "must-see TV."

Cable's early years saw the emergence of the "surfer," who would recklessly press the remote to scan channels aimlessly. This behavior underscored the importance of visually appealing programming. The humble remote, a small yet mighty device, had revolutionized how we interacted with television, making couch potatoes and channel surfers a thing of the past.