Updated - Just how good is WiFi Chumby alarm clock?
Posted February 28, 2008 at 02:03 PM by JG Mason
Section: Computers, Wireless, Gadgets / Other, Household
Everyone wants to love this cute little thing. Chumby is a fun little alarm clock that features more things than my smartphone: touchscreen, WiFi, accelerometer, active user/developer community and lots more. Does it live up to our wide-eyed expectations?
No. No one wants to come out and say it, but you can always trust Gadgetell to give it to you straight. It isn’t ready. This isn’t the model you want. These are not the droids you are looking for
Yes, it cute, cuddly, bean-bag armored and can be almost anything. Here is what everyone agrees: the concept is awesome. The product falls short. If you read the reviews (and I have) here is what everyone complains about: Networking is cumbersome touchscreen is tough to use it’s powercord is not optional, no batteries no way to avoid the advertisements (some of us would pay a higher premium for that) bringing up the control panel isn’t easy, especially to quiet the thing down screen is too bright at night.
Again, we all love the concept of a connected alarm clock and to be sure, the Chumby blows away even its closest competitor. But it could be so much more and be much better. I am thrilled that products like this exist and can’t wait to see the 2nd offering.
**Update: Chumby founder and VP of Software Dev addresses the common concerns below**. I’ll give credit to him for getting out and and mixing it up with us. It is great to see a company actually care enough to leave a comment. Kudos.