I know that you can buy CAT5e to RS-232 adapters...I'm thinking about doing this for my 990. Basically, this requires that a GUI be written (for something like a laptop, tablet, android etc) that drives the RS-232 commands for the CAT5e/RS-232 box.
Personally, I love this idea...but sure, for future product, a wi-fi or wired ethernet port would be a great way to provide control to the unit from any device that happens to be on your home network (and provide the app with the purchase).
Mark