Have you already heard about Chumby? This is a compact Linux-based device with touchscreen that displays any information from internet. It’s not a usual WiFi internet console – it has AC power only and is not portable. Basically it’s primary usage is showing set of small user-customizable Adobe Flash animations that deliver real-time information. Technically it’s built of 350MHz ARM9 controller, has 64MB of SDRAM, 64MB of NAND flash ROM, a 320×240 3.5 inch TFT LCD touchscreen running at 12Hz, stereo 2W speakers, an audio output, an integrated microphone, two USB 2.0 ports, and integrated WiFi.
Working with Chumby is very easy. All you need is to activate the device via internet, download all necessary widgets (every widget is made for viewing some website, blog, rss feed etc., it could be a gem, media viewer or anything else) and plug it in electric socket. Everything will be downloaded via wi-fi, and you can control the device with touchscreen and stock sensors – those four tactile “buttons” on edges. Yeah, you squeeze this soft insets and they’ll work like actual buttons.
My opinion is that Chumby could be a good replacement for usual kitchen or bedroom TV. It can replace such usual things as morning newspaper or night movie viewing. The main disadvantage that it’s still not a portable gadget, but anyway it is worth its price – $179.95 (free shipping).
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