The new boxes can use the internet
I've been with DirecTV since the early 90's, I had phone lines run to most of my IRD's and for the others I did the "stonecold" trick and ran a long phone cord to them once a month.
I dropped my landline phone this year and went cell only
. I emailed DirecTv about hooking my H21's and H23 to the internet so they could "call home" and got this reply:
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Response (XXXXXX X. - 1002XXXXX) - 09/10/2009
Dear Mr. XXXXXXXX,
Thanks for writing. I understand you recently disconnected your phone line connection. To receive the full benefits of your DIRECTV System (pay per view purchases via remote control/sports subscription auto-renewal), the receiver must be continuously connected to a land-based phone line, which means that both the phone and the receiver must have a fixed location. Unfortunately, a cell phone does not meet either of these criteria because it is mobile and usually not left on at all times.
However, you may still order DIRECTV Cinemas or pay per view events online. To do this, just sign in to your account at directv.com/movies or directv.com/events (or register if you haven't already), click on the "Order Now" button next to the movie you'd like to order and follow the instructions to complete your purchase.
You can also order DIRECTV Cinema and pay per view events through our automated phone system by calling 1-800-531-5000 and selecting the option to "Order pay per view movies and events" ($1.50 phone fee applies when using automated system). You can also order your pay per view movie or event directly from a Customer Service Representative, but a $5.00 order assistance fee may apply.
Sincerely,
XXXXXX X.
Employee ID 1002XXXXX
DIRECTV Customer Service
So..... Can the boxes be hooked to the internet? she never answered my question....