DirecTV buys DVR software maker ReplayTV

In the latest twist in the ever-shifting digital video recording industry, the nation's leading satellite broadcaster DirecTV has purchased most of the assets of Cupertino-based ReplayTV, an early pioneer of DVRs that was crushed into near oblivion years ago after a court battle with Hollywood. DirecTV Group acquired the ReplayTV brand and other assets from Tokyo-based D&M Holdings, D&M said Thursday. Financial terms were not disclosed. ReplayTV, along with rival TiVo, debuted its DVR in 1999. It's unclear what DirecTV's specific plans are with ReplayTV, though some might construe the purchase as pre-emptive protection against future patent disputes.