A remote control handset for cordless communication with a video controller enables enhanced video control and telephonic communication through the handset in an integrated communication network. Interface features on an integrated remote control and phone handset and in graphical screens displayed on the video appliance to facilitate user control of viewing and telephonic functions available in the aforementioned architecture. The user interface comprises controls or push buttons on a control panel incorporated into the handset. The user interface also comprises graphical screens which may be configured by the user to appear as a picture-in-picture with a video broadcast program on the video appliance, or as a full screen on the video appliance. The invention also provides speed dial features in which a number displayed on an advertisement on the video appliance may be dialed by the user upon engagement of a single control button on the handset.