Chumby, the "squeezable wireless beanbag computer" is an open source consumer device that is in its own category, whatever that is.
It is sort of like a cross between a PDA and a pet. It was invented by hackers for hackers and its functions are determined by the owner according to which "widgets" they download. Among the widgets: alarm-clock, video browser, weather display, Flickr browser, sports scores, gossip, music, games, etc. Chumby invites you to hack and will ship soon for under $200.
Touchscreen WiFi Beanbag
Chumby PDA Pet
Trend Themes
1. Squeezable Technology - The trend towards technology that can be physically manipulated, like Chumby's 'squeezable' beanbag, opens opportunities for innovations in tactile interfaces and interactive design.
2. Open Source Consumer Devices - The rise of open source consumer devices, like Chumby, allows for greater customization and encourages collaboration among hackers, providing opportunities for disruptive innovation in the tech industry.
3. Widget-based Devices - The use of widgets in Chumby allows for a modular approach to device functionality, providing opportunities for the development of specialized widgets to cater to specific user preferences.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - The consumer electronics industry can leverage the trend of open-source devices and widget-based technology to develop customizable, user-friendly products that cater to specific user interests.
2. Smart Home - The trend towards tactile interfaces and the use of widgets in consumer devices presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in the smart home industry, with the potential for specialized devices and interfaces to control various home features.
3. Entertainment - The emergence of 'squeezable' technology and widget-based devices can offer new opportunities for disruptive innovation and consumer engagement in the entertainment industry, opening up new possibilities for interactive games and media consumption experiences.