It will change the channels of your DirecTV box as long
as you have specified for it to do so during the setup
of your "Watch TV" activity.

The best way I have found to ensure I have the proper
settings is to simply go through and operate my equipment.
If something doesn't work I go back and tweak the settings.
Once I have all the settings right I am now finding out
I can go back and actually adjust the delays to increase
component response time. It makes a huge difference in
the usability of this excellent remote.
I hope that's not overwhelming with too much info.
,R