Exemplary embodiments are directed to an apparatus dedicated to controlling a specified multimedia device for viewing programming content. The apparatus has an input interface configured for capturing a fingerprint of a user. The apparatus also includes memory for storing a plurality of user identification files. Each user identification file including data associated with at least one reference fingerprint of a respective user. A processor compares the captured fingerprint with at least one reference fingerprint stored in memory, and generates a control signal based on a result of the comparison. The control signal can include user profile identifier associated with the captured fingerprint and command data for instructing the multimedia device to generate a customized or default user interface for the identified user to view or access programming content. The control signal is transmitted to a multimedia device.