Changing the background color doesn't hurt battery life in itself. However, just like the MX-950, it's possible to set a color that is brighter or dimmer. Dimmer colors produce better bettery life (and in my opinion, look nicer in the room).
Although this isn't an official postion, my understanding is that we're expecting to ship in March. I don't have an exact date.
I'm not even going to attempt a comment on MSRP. Every time I think I know our price sheet, I turn out to be wrong. It's a good thing I'm not in Sales!
Best regards, Dale
I'm a member of the Remote Central community, just like you! My comments here are my own, and in no way express the opinions, policies, or plans of Universal Remote Control, Inc.