We always like to let people know when we’ve spotted a winning gadget.  Two years ago we wrote about Chumby, the “computer in a beanbag” which provided a 3.5″ screen and a custom Internet feed.  It was a quick way to check websites like Facebook without turning on a computer.  The latest version of this little gadget is Chumby8, which is actually the third version to be released.   The beanbag is gone and this new Chumby comes with and 8″ touch screen display and more than 1500 familiar apps including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr and Pandora.   Probably it’s most useful app is an alarm clock that can wake you up music or any other scheduled app.  You can also insert a flash drive or SD card and play music or view photos from the device. 

The Chumby8 is no replacement for a tablet or smartphone, but it you’re looking for a digital photo frame or alarm clock with all the bells and whistles, check out Chumby8.  The price is about $200, which is the same as the original Chumby.

Read a complete Chumby8 review on CNET and visit the Chumby website for more information.

The Chumby is a quick way to get in touch on Facebook or Twitter without turning on a computer. You can also stream video from sites like YouTube. It has a 3.5 inch screen and a built in stereo radio. Basic models start at $199. Found out more on the Chumby website.