@Weiman: My ex-boss had one of those. It was gold, and he was the ex-lead singer of a Christian heavy metal band.

@meatbag_pussrocket: That's fine if you believe that. Me, I'm going to Google "non-capitalist countries with high standards of living" so I know where to move next.

@meatbag_pussrocket: I don't think it's unnerving at all. If someone makes the best widget, people are going to use it. Anyone is welcome to make their own better version of the widget, just like Google did. No one is stopping anyone from doing so, least of all Google.

@meatbag_pussrocket: It's terrible how capitalism is a de-facto meritocracy.

@redman042: That's why I'm stockpiling Pampers in my bunker. You know, for the End Days, because they're CLEARLY starting. Thanks, Google!

@Lactose_The_Intolerant: What you did there, I see it, etc.

@Dodge2002: EXACTLY. Microsoft would NEVER add features to their search engine that would make it more useful for people!

Man, it sure does suck how much I'm forced to use those Google products that I'm paying for! It's like I don't even have a choice of what to use anymore!

@showbiz2: I totally see what you're saying, but I think one thing to keep in mind here is that the iPad is probably cheaper to produce than these other tablets, and is produced in larger quantities as well, which results in lower component prices due to volume.

@Sidimus: Now THAT is what you call a "zing", kids.

Here's one I took at the Studio Ghibli Museum in Mitaka:

@Time Pilot AKA: I want to be part of a Fonzie Scheme.

What, no airplane mode? I'm sorry, ma'am, but you'll need to remove the dress and place it in this handy Faraday Cage for the duration of the flight.

@nvucinic: Holy crap. You network guys are hardcore. :)

@Crawl to China: Love the gold stars idea! Will be adding that to my backpack shortly. :)

@wilgeno: The Sonic Screwdriver - For All Your K9 Repair Needs!

@farcedude: Thanks for the reminder about the paracord - I keep meaning to pick some up, but keep forgetting.

I've got a Crumpler Sinking Barge backpack, which I picked because it's a camera bag that doesn't look like one.