How does an on-demand set-top compete in the entertainment world? Get some muscle.

Vudu just announced deals with Control 4, Crestron, Logitech, NetStreams, Philips, Universal Electronics, and Universal Remote Control to push its pricey ($999) Vudu XL product.

Each one of the control companies will start to integrate various products with the Vudu. Not all of those products were announced, but control codes will be made available in programming tools and databases for Logitech Harmony Advanced remotes, Philips Prestigo and Pronto lines, Universal’s Nevo Controllers and URC’s Custom Professional products.

Not that they don’t have love for the regular Vudu box, but the XL is only available through authorized dealers, so the deal makes sense.

Vudu XL offers more than 5,000 standard-def and 100 high-def movies on-demand. It also offers 1,000 TV shows. The movies are available for rent or purchase.

Rachel Cericola - Contributing Writer

Over the past 15 years, Rachel Cericola has covered entertainment, web and technology trends. Check her out at www.rachelcericola.com.