If you’re not familiar with a ‘Chumby‘, it’s an interesting little linux computer thing in a cuddly package. You can read more here. The cool thing, though, is that it uses a neat, hackable interface with tons of little widgets that you can pick from to create ‘channels’. The device itself costs $200, and while cool, isn’t near the level of usefulness as the Internet Tablets.

However, they do offer a ‘Virtual Chumby’, with almost the same functionality, and an enterprising member of InternetTabletTalk.com has put together a Maemo app called Grumby that uses a little bit of python, along with that Virtual Chumby service to turn your Internet Tablet into a Chumby.

There’s two files to download, and you’ll need to create a Chumby account, but both are REALLY easy, and bring a new level of low-function usability to the Internet Tablet. There’s plenty of full-screen clocks, as well as some neat video units and webcams out there.

You’ll need to install this Python application set first (note you should NOT need to be in Red Pill mode):

Followed by this, which is the actual Grumby applicaion:

Go to www.Chumby.com and setup an account (free) and then setup a virtual Chumby. You’ll need to copy the code that it gives you into the Preferences area in Grumby, but then you’re ready to rock and roll, and can easily customize your channel with different widgets.

Categories: Applications
Tags: chumby, Features, grumby, Internet Tablet