Just wanted to follow up on this in case someone else has the same issue. My remote was bricked from using the SkipUpdate app so Jason has sent out a new one to me. I also had another remote which would have been the same revision as the one that is bricked. I was able to update it's firmware by following these steps :
Remove the batteries. Stop the GUI. Unplug any cable.
While holding the center and return key down, plug the USB C cable into the remote
If successful, you should see the ring blink 3 times if you press any button on the remote
Start the skipApp.
You should be prompted to upgrade the firmware. If it has the initial problem, the app wont see it, however, the remote will return to normal if you power cycle it.