care until you noticed the device couldn't do several things you wanted it to -- thought it could -- do. What Doctorow was trying to warn you about is exactly the feeling you're having right now. You purchased a locked platform that is designed to feed the masses whatever the corporation decides they want you to see. And you will receive whatever functionality they decide they want you to be able to have. I'm a confirmed heterotech (comfortable and satisfied with both SONY/VAIO laptop and iPhone, plus now an iPad), so I don't buy gadgets due to Apple-obsessive-compulsive disorder. With just two days of exploration time, I can definitively say that the iPad will be a long-term useful device, in spite of several well-documented and accurate deficiencies. For frequent business travelers like me, having an iPad is a blessing. I can now leave my heavy laptop home or in the office completely. I love the easy-toting iPad (I got the leather folding portfolio case). Less than 2 pounds with the case. Looks professional and unobtrusive in executive meetings. Fabulous 10-hour battery (no dorky power cords and bricks to plug in). Full email capability, synced with my organization's Microsoft Exchange server. Synced important MS Office files, and total edit capability using Documents To Go Premium. Althouse said, "Now, now, you boys. Moms may not care about fiddling with the inner workings of technological devices, but that doesn't mean we're not mentally sharp....We just want tools to get to and engage in