Does it really matter whether it has the symbols or not if the client can be taught what happens when the button is pushed?

What does SKIP + mean to the same person who cannot understand >>| ??

Both have to be taught to the client as to what their use is and many times the use on a universal remote control is different in different devices.

Both the word and the symbol can mean - move to next track, or move to next chapter, or skip forward 30 seconds, or move to the next day, or WHATEVER is programmed to that key.

In the end, the client/consumer needs to have been exposed to A/V equipment at some point in their life or learn a least a modicum of information about their new equipment and the controller in order to operate it.

Yes, the CI makes it as easy and fool-proof as possible, but the client needs to put forth a little effort to learn a bit about what he just bought if he/she wants to get maximum enjoyment from the whole thing.

IMHO.