14 DAY TRIAL // The chumby device from chumby industries was among the first standalone devices featuring a comprehensive software platform capable of running apps, and now, it seems that the manufacturers has decided to unveil its successor, namely the chumby8.
The name of the new app-running appliance is inspired directly by the size of its display, the device now coming equipped with an 8-inch LCD touchscreen that provides an 800 x 600 pixels resolution.
Beside its large touchscreen, the chumby8 also comes equipped with two USB ports, CF and SD memory card slots, which allow it to upload photos directly to the user's social media accounts, but also to virtually turn the chumby8 into a digital photo frame or music player.
Given the fact that we're talking about an Internet-connected device, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the chumby8 offers fast and easy access to all sorts of online audio content delivery services, whether we're talking about Internet radio stations, podcast stations, etc.
Additionally, the device also doubles as an alarm clock, while also featuring a comprehensive task scheduling application (just one of the over 1,500 apps available for this sytem).
"The chumby8 truly marks an evolution of the chumby device and software platform, creating a more personalized and user-friendly Internet streaming device that will complete any connected home or office," said Derrick Oien, CEO of chumby industries, who also added that "we've taken the time over the past year to listen to chumby fans and owners and incorporate their feedback into the new chumby8 and created a great multi-purpose connected device capable of tailoring to all."
Although it's been announced today, the chumby8 will only hit retail on April 5'th, when it will start selling for 199 US dollars, but if you're really looking forward to get this thing, you should know that it's already up for pre-order.