CrunchPad faces its unfortunate demise

Rumors were swirling about the death of CrunchPad but the man himself, Michael Arrington confirmed that it’s alive. Now today, a post at his TechCrunch blog re-confirms that CrunchPad is definitely dead not because of the mounting production costs but due to its OEM, Fusion Garage ducking out.

What conspired behind closed door is a secret and will probably remain that way but Arrington alleges that Fusion Garage wanted to go ahead and launch the product under their brand name despite being ready for the Nov 20 launch.

“We still acknowledge that Arrington and TechCrunch bring some value to your business endeavor…If he agrees to our terms, we would have Arrington assume the role of visionary/evangelist/marketing head and Fusion Garage would acquire the rights to use the Crunchpad brand and name. Personally, I don’t think the name is all that important but you seem to be somewhat attached to the name.”

The one side of the story puts Fusion Garage in bad light and it will be interesting to see how Fusion Garage tells their story to undermine Arrington.

For now, read the Arringont’s side of story here and feel sorry for the guy and his vision.

• TechCrunch sues Fusion Garage for Joo Joo (aka CrunchPad)
• CrunchPad becomes the Joo Joo, pre-orders begin from Dec 11
• Fusion Garage to hold a Media Event on Monday for CrunchPad
• CrunchPad is alive, will maintain a $300-400 price tag